"Les Racines" is the latest studio album from the outstanding guitarist and songwriter Vieux Farka Touré and his first release on World Circuit Records. Known as the "Hendrix of the Sahara," Vieux released five critically acclaimed solo albums on which he pushes the boundaries of traditional West African music and delves into new, uncharted territories. Vieux has also 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 to "the roots," Vieux documents a deep connection to traditional Songhai music from northern 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 showcases timeless grooves influenced by the traditional music of West Africa. Through Vieux's fire in playing guitar and the urgency of his lyrics, his music is highly relevant. "We are nothing if we suppress our respect for the past," Vieux says.