The Songbird

Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 were the headliner on the main stage on Bluesfest's second day. I recall buying one of his albums and finding it a bit laid-back for my tastes. Instead I went off to see Oumou Sangare, the Songbird of Wassulu, on the Black Sheep Stage. As I've said before, its world music offerings are almost always the best use of your time if no other act is catching your eye or ear.



Her lively backup singers - I believe the lass on the right is Sangare's daughter.



The songbird herself.





Her stoic kamale ngoni player.



I didn't get anyone else's name.





A little (out-of-focus) tossed percussion.



Possible most fun musical instrument ever.



More cheerful percussion from the djembe player.





More Oumou!



Whole lotta shakin' goin' on.



Singalong action!



More shaking!



I like her earrings.



She introduced everyone, but I promptly forgot their names.



At least it was an opportunity to snap the rest of the band.



The soku player.



The flautist gets in a bit of singing.



And some final shaking.



Good night all! That's Living Colour's Will Calhoun at right.



Really, it's hard to miss with The Black Sheep Stage.

• Show reminder: The Elmdale House hosts another sold out show by Wanda Jackson and The Lustre Kings.