Dirtmusic - Troubles (2013)

The previous album by Aussie rockers Chris Eckman (the Walkabouts) and Hugo Race (the Bad Seeds) was a brave fusion with Tuareg band Tamikrest. This follow-up, cut in a makeshift studio in Bamako, at first seems more of the same, its rock guitars riding African rhythms, heavy on shimmering atmosphere but light on structured songs. As guest singers arrive, it coalesces into something more. La Paix, an impassioned cry against the terrorist invasion of Mali, is voiced thrillingly by Aminata Traore, while Virginie Dembélé does likewise over the dub beats of Wa Nazu. The title cut, originally by reggae's Keith Hudson, adds a bluesy sting. Tough stuff.