"Les Racines" is the latest studio album by outstanding guitarist and songwriter Vieux Farka Touré and his first release on World Circuit Records. Known as the "Hendrix of the Sahara", Vieux has released five critically acclaimed solo albums in which he pushes the boundaries of traditional West African music and delves into new, uncharted territories. In addition, Vieux has released extraordinary collaborations with Dave Matthews and jazz guitarist John Scofield, as well as albums with American singer-songwriter Julia Easterlin and Israeli singer-songwriter Idan Raichel.

With "Les Racines", which translates as "the roots", Vieux documents a deep connection to the traditional Songhai music from the north of Mali, which became known in the West as "Desert Blues". Vieux's roots run deep - he is the son of Ali Farka Touré, considered by many to be one of Africa's finest guitarists. The album was recorded in Vieux's home studio in Bamako and presents timeless grooves influenced by the traditional music of West Africa. With Vieux's fire when playing guitar and the urgency of his lyrics, his music is highly relevant. "We are nothing if we repress our respect for the past," says Vieux.