In the mid-90s American guitarist Eyre, who had previously spent time in various parts of Africa, spent seven months in Mali learning the various styles of that impoverished but musically rich country, and exploring the griot tradition in which the musicians are historians-cum-minstrels, telling song-tales, and who sometimesact as musician-laureate.
Anecdotal, personal, readable and offering a rare and historical overview of the complexities of what we call "socio-political" life in a country where musicians are crucial figures.
A singular and important insight, but dense for those without some knowledge of the unique music.
