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Straight No Chaser brings me back to Senegal with "Africa" and Christmas cleverness

by Jamie Rhein (RSS feed) on Dec 21st 2007 at 9:30AM

I learned to make a food dryer while I was a Peace Corps volunteer at a food preserving training in Thiés, Senegal. It looked a bit like a space ship, but it did work. The friend who was my partner and I created the design ourselves. Oh, we were so proud when the flies were kept out and the mango slices began to dry. That night, after a few beers, the other volunteers who had also come to this training and we danced outside in an open air pavilion to someone's boom box. I distinctly remember "Africa" by Toto. It was March and a breeze was blowing gently. This was a night when all elements seemed to come together in perfection.

My husband's cousin who was also in the Peace Corps, but in Cameroon emailed me the link today to this You Tube video of the a cappella group Straight No Chaser. This group hails from Indiana University--all alumni, and I have to say, they're terrific. You'll see. Halfway through, you'll also find out why hearing their music evoked images of Africa--Christmas too--the beginning of this is a how many Christmas carols can you recognize in the Twelve Days of Christmas, but by the end I was in Thiés. I love this blend of elements--a cross-pollination of sorts. Since this group tours, you may catch them live somewhere. Here's a link to Straight No Chaser's performance dates.

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Festivals and Events, Senegal, Video

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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

Charlotte Oct 22nd 2008 10:53PM

I feel compelled to put the word out about Straight No Chaser. I am so inspired by their story and what they are now doing with Atlantic Records.

I know I'll be buying their Christmas album, and watching for them on television if they make any appearances! For all those who haven’t heard of their comeback you should totally check out their new website www.sncmusic.com and watch their webisodes.

A new fan in Chicago, Charlotte

Ron Mar 9th 2009 6:43AM

We sponser a girl in Thies, Senegal, and like to read about the area..any more info?

jshael Dec 21st 2007 10:51AM

They hail from Indiana University, not University of Indiana. As an alum, that is a HUGE mistake. If possible, please correct.

Jamie Rhein Dec 21st 2007 10:51AM

Thanks for the catch. Changes made.

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