Xalam by Ben Aylon

For the full album story, documentary and videos: https://www.benaylon.com/xalam

In January 2020, Ben gained national recognition in Senegal after being featured on popular Senegalese TV shows and performing his solo shows around the capital, Dakar. His widespread popularity has brought him together with the legendary Youssou Ndour and enabled his many musical collaborations with artists including Cheikh Lô, Khaira Arby, Omar Pene, Awadi and Doudou Ndiaye Rose.

Ben always carried the xalam/djeli ngoni with him in his quest. In the moments between the high energy and drumming, he slowly started to compose the soundtrack of his travels, which eventually became the ground for his debut international album ‘Xalam’ released on World Music Network. Seven years in the making, the album presents his xalam playing and compositions featuring Doudou Ndiaye Rose, Khaira Arby, Amy Sacko and AvevA. Ben produced this album to reflect his musical vision, always respecting tradition while at the same time innovating and elevating the music and instruments of Mali and Senegal into a fresh contemporary setting.

Recently, Ben was nominated for Best Artist 2022 by Songlines Magazine. ‘Xalam’ was announced as Best Album 2021 by Songlines Magazine, hit #5 on both TWMC and WMCE music charts, and received a 5 star 'Top of The World' review on Songlines Magazine, followed by a 4-star review on DownBeat Magazine.

Tracklist

1.	Xalam (feat. Doudou Ndiaye Rose)	4:56

2.	Hulem Belibe (feat. AvevA	4:20

3.	SeneGambia (Part 1)	1:53

4.	SeneGambia (Part 2)	6:24

5.	Alafia (feat. Khaira Arby)	4:05

6.	Benn Takamba	6:22

7.	Jonibenina (feat. Amy Sacko)	4:52

8.	Café Touba	4:25

9.	Mon Lov	5:43

Credits

released May 28, 2021

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