October 2020 (#161)

The October issue (#161) of Songlines is now available. This issue’s cover star is the Malian singer-songwriter Afel Bocoum who speaks about his concerns for his country. Other features include an interview with the rapper Criolo about life in Brazil during COVID-19 and Bolsonaro; AMMAR 808 talks about his latest southern Indian inspired project; multi-instrumentalist Ssewa Ssewa who is intent on bringing Ugandan music to the world; the Torres family who are keeping Colombia’s Pacific Coast marimba music alive; a Beginner’s Guide to Iranian singer Mahsa Vahdat, plus all the latest news, online streamed concert listings, CD, book and world cinema reviews. The Top of the World album this issue includes Roby Lakatos & Dr L Subramaniam, Stick in the Wheel, Jake Blount and Amira Medunjanin, plus an exclusive playlist by The Fast Show co-creator Charlie Higson, featuring music by Orchestra Baobab, Taraf de Haidouks, Djivan Gasparyan & Michael Brook and others. The issue also comes with a bonus CD of Korean music from K-Music Festival.