While the combination may seem incongruous, it's easy to see the continuum when you reflect upon the central role the drums play in every setting. Thiam's explanation (not necessarily obvious to the casual listener): "I'm soloing on most of the tunes." But he's not alone: he's assembled some of the top players of Senegal and West Africa. Back to Africa presents a wonderful companion recording to the two BJT issues on Justin Time—delving into the roots of the Senegalese musical tradition without losing track of the present.