The composition "État d'esprit" by Dramane Dembélé, also known as Popimane, my cousin and a master of the Peul flute, was a musical revelation for me—a work that transcended traditional boundaries and opened the doors to a new sonic world. Coming from a family of griots perpetuating the oral traditions of the Mandingue, I was already acquainted with the rich and evocative sounds of this ancient culture. However, through Dramane's guidance, I delved deeper into the enchanting subtleties of the Peul flute and its remarkable ability to blend with other instruments, resulting in captivating contemporary music. Popimane's mastery of techniques such as Flutter-tonguing, which creates vibrant tremolos, and Multiphonics, producing complex harmonies, further expanded the horizons of the Peul flute beyond traditional confines.
To me, "État d'esprit" embodies a return to roots, a profound exploration into the soul of the earth, where the rhythms of traditional percussion harmonize with the whispers of nature. It's as if this piece encapsulates the essence of the day's end, as the sun sets slowly and the mind opens to the infinite possibilities of returning home.
The discovery of "État d'esprit" marked a pivotal moment in my musical journey—a revelation that immersed me in an unexpected universe of sound. It wasn't merely a composition complex in terms of harmony or texture; rather, it was an immersive experience that transported me to landscapes both familiar and strikingly new. Through its captivating sounds, I felt a profound connection to our family's musical heritage while simultaneously venturing into new artistic horizons. As I delved into this piece, I was transported into a realm where the boundaries between traditional and contemporary dissolve, and music becomes a universal language transcending cultures and epochs.
