Malian singer/songwriter Issa Bagayogo has proven himself to be a major new player in 21’st century African music. His first two Six Degrees releases, Sya and Timbuktu have both topped the European World music radio charts and have been tremendously influential templates for beautifully mixing traditional West African music with modern electronica. Issa’s music appeals to fans of dub and ambient groove without alienating the people who came to African music by way of Ali Farka Toure and Oumou Sangare.  　　 　　On his new CD, Tassamakan ( which translates to "voice of fire"), Issa sends a message to his many imitators that he is still the master of striking that magical balance between roots authenticity and dance club hip. Bagayogo once again collaborates with his French producer/keyboardist, Yves Wernert who provides the cutting edge beats that compliment Issa’s kamele n’goni African lute) playing. The sessions also included the talents of West African guitar master, Mama Sissako who adds a unique Afro-blues flavor to the CD.