RAPHAËL PANNIER QUARTET

LIVE IN SAINT LOUIS, SENEGAL

Miel Music

Raphaël Pannier, Project leader/drums/arranger/composer; Khadin Niang, sabar master/sabar composer/sabar n’der/thiol/khine/tama;

To introduce you to this music, we must refer first to Senegalese master drummer Doudou N’Diaye Rose.  He was one of the most renowned and influential musicians in the world at the time of his death in 2015.  He was named a ‘living human treasure’ by UNESCO in 2006. N’Diaye Rose spawned a musical dynasty in West Africa. The iconic drummer collaborated with legendary musicians including Miles Davis, Peter Gabriel, Dizzy Gillespie and even the Rolling Stones before his departure from this Earth.

The artist I am reviewing is Raphaël Pannier. A French drummer, who was greatly influenced by Doudou N’Diaye Rose. But that icon died before Pannier could meet him.  For years, Raphaël Pannier studied the style and culture of Doudou N’Diaye Rose. He searched for a West African drummer who would share his dream of combining the N’Diaye Rose drum style with American jazz.  Fortunately, his search led him to Khadim Niang, one of Senegal’s most respected drum masters, and a member of N’Diaye Rose’s group from 1997 to 1999.  They agreed to collaborate. The result is this landmark recording, the result of converging three musical traditions; American jazz, the French culture, and African Senegalese Sabar music.

In May of 2024, Pannier’s quartet joined the Niang Sabar Group at the Saint-Louis Festival in Senegal. For seven days, Pannier did an intense residency in Senegal to bridge the cultural divide and share musical ideas. Perhaps, for the first time, the Senegalese drums performed with a piano and jazz musicians, The two master drummers crafted compositions together and merged their cultures.

The ensemble opens with “Lonely Woman,” an Ornette Coleman composition with that haunting melody. The arrangement unfolds with the bass of François Moutin setting the tempo and mood.  He is soon joined by the jazzy piano of Thomas Enhco, with Pannier’s drums egging the music on with gusto.  Also, saxophonist Yosvany Terry is soulful and spectacular throughout. The wonderful addition of Khadim Niang and his Sabar drum ensemble is what turns the heat up a notch on this project.

This unusual group of musicians also interpret two other jazz standards.  One is “Take Five” the Brubeck standard jazz tune and John Coltrane’s popular, “Naima.”  During the Coltrane tune arrangement, the drummers employ Senegalese wedding ceremony rhythms.

The two drummers first collaborated long-distance. The Sabar master sent various rhythms to the French drummer. Pannier experimented by putting harmonics and melodies on top of those rhythms. “Xalat Bou Set” is a tune on the album that translates to “The Holy Spirit.” It’s a composition they co-wrote.

Their arrangement of “Take Five” challenged the African musicians purposefully.

“It was Niang’s one demand on agreeing to our collaboration.  It was part of the contract,” laughed Pannier. “Khadim wanted to teach the concept of odd meter to his guys.  Sabar is so linked with dance that they found it challenging to encounter rhythms that they couldn’t dance to,” explained Raphaël.

An impressive booklet accompanies the album. It’s entirely in French with stunning photographs of the musical participants.

This music is an experiment that not only reaches out to touch my ears, it touches my soul. The energy created by blending rich cultures and multi-rhythms brings the music energetically alive. This music wraps around me, like arms of love.

THE BAND: François Moutin, upright & electric bass; Thomas Enhco, piano/Fender Rhodes; Yosvany Terry, alto saxophone/shekere; SABIR GROUP:  Khadin Niang, sabar master/sabar composer/sabar n’der/thiol/khine/tama; Mouhamed Niang, m’beung m’beung; Papa Madiodio Niang, tungune; Yoro Niang, tungune; Bathie Gueye, Khin/dun dun; Fallou Gueye, thiol; Cheikh Ndiaye Baba, talmbat.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

Buy Us a Cup of Coffee!

Join the movement in supporting Making a Scene, the premier independent resource for both emerging musicians and the dedicated fans who champion them.

We showcase this vibrant community that celebrates the raw talent and creative spirit driving the music industry forward. From insightful articles and in-depth interviews to exclusive content and insider tips, Making a Scene empowers artists to thrive and fans to discover their next favorite sound.

Together, let’s amplify the voices of independent musicians and forge unforgettable connections through the power of music

You can donate directly through Paypal!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Order the New Book From Making a Scene

Breaking Chains – Navigating the Decentralized Music Industry

Breaking Chains is a groundbreaking guide for independent musicians ready to take control of their careers in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized music. From blockchain-powered royalties to NFTs, DAOs, and smart contracts, this book breaks down complex Web3 concepts into practical strategies that help artists earn more, connect directly with fans, and retain creative freedom. With real-world examples, platform recommendations, and step-by-step guidance, it empowers musicians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and build sustainable careers on their own terms.

More than just a tech manual, Breaking Chains explores the bigger picture—how decentralization can rebuild the music industry’s middle class, strengthen local economies, and transform fans into stakeholders in an artist’s journey. Whether you’re an emerging musician, a veteran indie artist, or a curious fan of the next music revolution, this book is your roadmap to the future of fair, transparent, and community-driven music.

Get your Limited Edition Signed and Numbered (Only 50 copies Available)  Free Shipping Included