World Music: 25 Albums You Need From Across the Globe and Throughout the Decades

World music on vinyl is the cheapest time-traveling plane ticket you could buy.

Why?

While listening to Western music day in and day out, it's easy to assume that's what sets the bar and establishes the "industry standard" on recording, writing, and everything else in music. But when you listen from across the world and throughout the decades, you realize how much this simple assumption does a disservice to your taste and respect for music as a whole.

Furthermore, nothing captures its detail, intimacy, and reflective nature better than listening to world music on vinyl; it's like stepping out of ourselves and into the culture and time the music was recorded, so tangible you could almost touch it.

So, let's unpack this non-exhaustive but highly-curated list of some of the best world music albums for your vinyl collection!

Buena Vista Social Club - Buena Vista Social Club (1997)

The Buena Vista Social Club album, released in 1997, captures the music of Cuba's pre-revolutionary era, played by some of the most talented musicians. Recorded by Ry Cooder in a live setting, the album's production maintains the richness of the performances, which can be lost in digital formats but shines on vinyl.

Using analog equipment during recording adds warmth and authenticity, another massive bonus missed on most digital platforms. The album provides an immersive listening experience, showcasing meticulous attention to detail throughout the production and recording.

This high-quality sound and the album's cultural significance make it an excellent choice for expanding a vinyl collection with exceptional music and superior audio quality. 

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Strut - Juju: A Message From Mozambique (1973)

"Message From Mozambique" by JuJu is an outstanding album that should be part of any vinyl collection just because of its historical importance.

Released in 1973 on the Strata-East label, this album captures the intense, politically charged spirit of the time through Plunky Nkabinde and his band's powerful compositions. Tracks like "Struggle (Home)" and "Freedom Fighter" reflect the activism of the era, resonating with movements against the Vietnam War and for African American rights.

Nkabinde's saxophone, influenced by legends like Pharoah Sanders and John Coltrane, blends blues with high-energy and evocative sounds. The ensemble's percussion and Al-Hammel Rasul's piano create a sound deeply rooted in African traditions and avant-garde jazz. Despite its limited initial release and collector's item status, the album's reissue on Strut Records provides a rare chance to enjoy it in all its brilliance.

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Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares - Le mystère des voix Bulgares (1987)

The album, performed by the Bulgarian State Radio & Television Female Vocal Choir, grasps the essence of traditional Bulgarian folk singing.

The 2018 release "BooCheeMish" by The Bulgarian Women's Choir, featuring guest artist Lisa Gerrard, continues this tradition by adding modern instruments while keeping the choir's powerful vocals. Tracks like "Poro Sotunda" showcase the seamless blend of Gerrard's voice with the choir's harmonies, creating a rich and involved listening experience.

The album also explores contemporary elements, as heard in "Rano Ranila," which incorporates modern beats and sounds, showing the choir's ability to evolve while honoring their origins. "BooCheeMish" is a tribute to the lasting charm of The Mystery of Bulgarian Voices, making it a must-have for vinyl fans who enjoy the richness and beauty of global music.

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Cesaria Evora - Distino Di Belita Limited 180-Gram Blue Colored Vinyl (2023)

Cesária Évora's album "Distino Di Belita," recorded with Jose da Silva, is a rare collection indeed. This album is a limited edition of 1000 copies on blue 180-gram vinyl. It includes a wide breadth of songs from across her various styles, from acoustic mornas to electric coladeras, showing Évora's skills as a versatile artist.

Standout tracks are "Nova Sintra" and the title track "Distino Di Belita," which showcase her ability to express deep emotions through music.

For fans who already own her other albums, "Distino Di Belita" adds a nuanced touch to Évora's discography. While some may notice differences in production compared to her later works, the album still features great songs highlighting her talent. Tracks like "Bitina," "Emigranti," and "Salamansa" maintain the authenticity and emotional depth that Évora is famous for. This album, blending raw and polished elements, is a must-have for devoted fans and collectors, capturing a significant moment in the career of the "barefoot diva."

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Youssou N'Dour - Guide (Wommat) Limited 180-Gram Flame Colored Vinyl (2024)

Youssou N'Dour's album "Wommat (The Guide)" presents a mix of Senegalese, French, and English lyrics, accompanied by solid rhythms and well-executed instrumentation. The album combines mbalax, a Senegalese dance music style with Western influences and even pop music. The songs on this album unpack themes of peace, freedom, and social issues.

A standout track is "7 Seconds," a duet with Neneh Cherry that blends vocal styles over a descending bass riff, creating a memorable song. Another notable track, "Leaving (Dem)," tells the story of a man moving from a gloomy town to the jungle, while "Without a Smile (Same)" conveys a somber mood with its gentle rhythm and saxophone, speaking out against racism.

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Ofra Haza - Ofra Haza Limited 180-Gram Blue & Red Marble Colored Vinyl (1997)

The album "Ofra Haza" on limited 180-gram blue and red marble-colored vinyl is a must-have for collectors and world music enthusiasts. Recorded in 1997, this final release from the Israeli singer showcases her diverse pop styles, mixing Middle Eastern instruments with modern pop elements.

The track, "Show Me," connects to her roots with traditional string arrangements, while "Im Nin Alu 2000" gives a fresh twist to her most famous song. Haza sings in Hebrew, English, and French, adding a multicultural touch to each song. Tracks like "You," with its haunting cello and vocals, and "Give Me a Sign," featuring a French spoken word part, demonstrate her impressive vocal range and emotional depth.

The limited edition vinyl pressing improves the listening experience with high-quality sound that captures the subtle details of her music. With its mix of traditional and modern influences, this album is a fitting farewell for Ofra Haza, showing her ability to reach people worldwide.

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Fela Kuti - Music Of Many Colours (1978) 

"Music of Many Colours" is a collaborative album by Afro-funk pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and American vibraphonist Roy Ayers.

It showcases the power of music to unite people and is considered one of the top world albums on vinyl. Recorded in 1979, the album captures Fela's politically charged music and Ayers' R&B and jazz styles. The album consists of just two tracks, each filling one side of the vinyl, providing an immersive listening experience. "2,000 Blacks Got to Be Free," led by Ayers, is a funk anthem with Fela's orchestra and an energetic chorus.

It blends soul and Afro-funk, creating a captivating groove. On the other hand, "Africa—Centre of the World," led by Fela, starts with a deep chant and builds into a horn-driven masterpiece. Ayers' vibraphone performance adds an ethereal touch, making the track mesmerizing.

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Tito Puente - Mambo Diablo (1985)

Tito Puente's album "Mambo Diablo" is considered one of the best world music albums to have on vinyl, and it's no surprise why.

The first side starts with the title track, where Puente's skill on the vibraphone shines. The rhythm and melody, along with the orchestra's talents, including Sonny Bravo on piano, José Madera on congas, Johnny "Dandy" Rodriguez on bongos, and Bobby Rodriguez on bass, create a fantastic composition. Mario Rivera's saxophone performances are exceptional and add a special touch to each song. Puente's "Lush Life" arrangement smoothly transitions from a heartfelt bolero to an energetic cha-cha, showing his ability to blend emotions with rhythm.

This track combines elegance and intensity, capturing the album's shift from calm beginnings to lively, rhythmic beats. Each piece on this side, from "No Pienses Asi" to "Eastern Joy Dance," showcases Puente's signature style in Latin music, seamlessly blending complex rhythms and refined arrangements.

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Sun Ra Arkestra - Live At Babylon (2016) 

"Live at Babylon" by the Sun Ra Arkestra was recorded during a 2014 performance at Istanbul's Babylon Club. It showcases the great Sun Ra's legacy. Led by veteran saxophonist Marshall Allen, a Ra's original band member, the Arkestra delivers a lively set that captures Sun Ra's diverse musical styles.

The album blends old-school New York swing, New Orleans improvisation, and Chicago avant-garde, reflecting Sun Ra's innovative jazz approach. A standout is the vibrant rendition of Ra's signature tune "Saturn," showcasing the Arkestra's fusion of traditional jazz with cosmic sounds. Having "Live at Babylon" on vinyl provides an amazing listening experience, bringing the live performance atmosphere to your home.

The warmth of vinyl enhances the music's depth, allowing you to enjoy the musicians' interplay and the performance's energy. The album pays tribute to Sun Ra's brilliance and highlights the Arkestra's evolution under Allen's leadership. A must-have for jazz fans and vinyl collectors, this record celebrates the distinctive sound of one of jazz history's most innovative groups.

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The Chieftains - Bears Sonic Journals (1973) 

Bear's Sonic Journals – The Foxhunt, The Chieftains Live in San Francisco, 1973 & 1976, is an album that captures the spirit of live folk music.

Recorded by Owsley "Bear" Stanley, a renowned sound engineer, these recordings provide a remarkable look into The Chieftains' authentic performances. Their historical significance, along with the band's outstanding musical talent, makes this album a top choice for vinyl lovers.

The artwork complements the music beautifully, reflecting the evolution of Irish music. For those who enjoy live performances and the rich tradition of folk music, Bear's Sonic Journals – The Foxhunt is a great addition to your vinyl collection. The blend of top-notch sound engineering, captivating performances, and stunning artwork positions it as a must-have world music album on vinyl.

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Manu Chao - Clandestino (1998)

"Clandestino," the debut solo album by former Mano Negra frontman Manu Chao, is a must-have world music album on vinyl. This album takes you on a diverse musical journey, blending traditional Latin, salsa, dub, rock & roll, French pop, experimental rock, and techno.

Chao's uncommon voice and infectious delivery bring charm to standout tracks like "Mentira," "Mama Call," and "Bongo Bong." The album has different elements like ballads, chorus vocals, rapping, and spoken-word parts, creating an emotional listening experience. Using sampled bits from pirate radio broadcasts adds an interesting touch to the album, reflecting its title and theme. "Clandestino" is full of great ideas and styles, which may take a few listens to appreciate fully.

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Angélique Kidjo - Celia (2019)

Angélique Kidjo's album "Celia" is a beautiful reimagining of Celia Cruz's famous salsa music, blending it smoothly with Afrobeat and other African influences. The album includes collaborations with well-known artists like Tony Allen, Meshell Ndegeocello, and the Gangbé Brass Band.

Kidjo's strong vocals and creative arrangements bring a new perspective to Cruz's timeless songs, making it a standout addition to any music collection. Tracks such as "Cucala" and "La Vida Es Un Carnaval" demonstrate her talent in giving these songs a modern twist while honoring Cruz's original style.

Kidjo's reinterpretation of songs like "Quimbara" and "Bemba Colorá" with Afrobeat rhythms and lively brass sections brings a new energy to these classic hits.

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Tinariwen - Amadjar (2004)

Tinariwen's ninth album, "Amadjar," takes listeners to the Tuareg band's nomadic sound world.

Recorded on the way to Mauritania in the Moroccan Sahara, the album captures the essence of the desert with its dreamy, wide sound. The fuzzy guitars, rhythmic drums, and deep vocals create a captivating listening experience, bringing images of sandy breezes and moonlit dunes to mind. The lyrics are full of references to the desert landscape, painting vivid pictures that transport listeners to the band's world, no matter where they are.

Featuring talented guest artists like Warren Ellis and Cass McCombs, "Amadjar" combines soulful violin melodies and airy falsetto vocals, adding richness to the album. Yet, the real magic lies in the collaboration among Tinariwen's members. Tinariwen's skill in weaving universal themes of love, politics, and nature into their music without falling into clichés ensures that "Amadjar" remains as sincere and powerful as their past works.

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Ali Farka Touré - Voyageur (2006)

"Voyageur" is a new album with never-before-heard recordings by the famous guitarist Ali Farka Touré. Produced by his son Vieux Farka Touré and Nick Gold, the album collaborates with well-known musicians like Oumou Sangaré, Afel Bocoum, and Pee Wee Ellis.

The album captures the lively spirit of Ali's music from the 1990s to today, keeping it relevant in the years of younger generations of guitarists and lovers alike. This album honors Ali Farka Touré's lasting legacy and the exceptional talent of everyone involved. Standout tracks include those with Oumou Sangaré, such as "Bandoloboourou," "Cherie," and "Sadjona," where her strong vocals beautifully complement Ali's guitar. The different versions of "Sambadio," both electric and acoustic, provide individual perspectives, showcasing the album's depth.

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Bamba Wassoulou Groove - Dankele (2020) 

Bamba Wassoulou Groove's album "Dankele" offers a modern twist on Malian music, combining tradition and fresh approaches. The group, formed in Bamako in 2013, draws inspiration from bands like the Super Rail Band, blending funk, rock, and traditional Malian sounds.

On "Dankele," the triple-guitar creates a powerful wall of sound, influenced by Zani Diabate of the Super Djata Band. The album celebrates the evolution of Malian music, incorporating funk, rock, and reggae elements seamlessly with traditional rhythms. The exceptional guitar work truly shines, making this album a standout. For vinyl collectors and world music fans, "Dankele" is a must-have that showcases Mali's rich musical heritage and innovative spirit.

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Ladysmith Black Mambazo - Best Of Ladysmith Black Mambazo (1992)

Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the masters of South African a cappella music, showcase their impressive vocal talent on this album. Their harmonies, sung in Zulu and English, are filled with trills, yips, and rhythmic clicks, creating a distinctive listening experience.

The English songs share moral lessons, while the Zulu tracks reflect the group's cultural heritage. Despite the consistent mbube style, Ladysmith Black Mambazo's exceptional skill keeps the music captivating across the 16 songs. Listening to this album on vinyl lets you fully appreciate Ladysmith Black Mambazo's vocal abilities.

The warm sound of vinyl enhances the harmonies, bringing out the depth and clarity of each track. This collection showcases their technical talent and celebrates their cultural roots and musical traditions. For collectors and world music fans, this album is a tribute to Ladysmith Black Mambazo's lasting impact on South African music.

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Caetano Veloso - Caetano Veloso (1968)

Caetano Veloso's self-titled album from 1968 is a crucial moment in Brazilian music history, marking the beginning of the tropicalia movement. Alongside Gilberto Gil, Veloso played a key role in this groundbreaking movement, aiming to update Brazilian popular culture by mixing traditional Brazilian music with international pop and psychedelic rock.

This fresh approach was both praised and controversial, leading to Veloso and Gil's arrest and exile in 1969. The album includes well-known songs like "Alegria, Alegria," "Superbacana," and "Soy Loco por Ti America," each reflecting Veloso's vision of a new, globally-influenced Brazil. The album's first track, "Tropicália," captures the essence of the movement and demonstrates Veloso's talent for blending different musical styles seamlessly.

The lyrics, written by esteemed poets like Capinam, Ferreira Gullar, and Veloso himself, are renowned for their poetics. For collectors and world music enthusiasts, having this album on vinyl offers an authentic listening experience that captures the innovative essence and cultural importance of Caetano Veloso's work.

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Seu Jorge - Carolina (2002)

Seu Jorge's album "Carolina," released internationally in 2002, is an impressive first album that combines modern samba-funk with the classic sounds of the 1970s. After finding success with Farofa Carioca, Seu Jorge started a solo career that truly shines in this album. The opening track, "Carolina," sets a lively tone, followed by equally captivating songs like "Chega No Suingue" and "Mangueira."

These tracks highlight Jorge's excellent songwriting, expressive vocals, and his backing band's dynamic performances, including guitar, bass, drums, percussion, horns, and background vocalists. The album's production, a collaboration between Jorge Ben and Mario Caldato (known for his work with the Beastie Boys), ensures a current and traditional sound that can't get better than when listened to on wax and on a good system.

This album is a must-have for vinyl collectors and Brazilian music enthusiasts, capturing the spirit of samba funk with a contemporary twist.

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Gal Costa - Gal Costa (1969)

Gal Costa's self-titled album from 1969 marks a significant change from her debut "Domingo" in 1967. Her first album had traditional bossa nova songs, while her second album embraced the experimentalism of the Tropicalismo movement.

Working with important artists like Caetano Veloso, Os Mutantes, Tom Zé, and Gilberto Gil, Costa's new album mixed Brazilian pop with psychedelic and politically inspired elements. The first song, "Nao Identificado," with its psychedelic effects and rich strings, introduces Costa's smooth voice and gives a taste of the unusual sounds found throughout the album. 

The production's echo effects, gentle strings, and dreamy melodies shine in "Baby," capturing the essence of Tropicalismo's reflective, alluring, and sunny vibe.

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Sergio Mendes & Brasil 66 - Greatest Hits (1970)

Released in 1970, "Greatest Hits" by Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66 offers a curated selection of the group's most captivating tracks from their early albums. This compilation includes a dozen songs that showcase Mendes' unique blend of American female vocals, bossa nova rhythms, and lush orchestrations by Dave Grusin.

Tracks like "Mas Que Nada" and "Fool on the Hill" highlight the band's ability to blend Brazilian music with mainstream pop, creating a sound that captivated listeners in the late '60s. While not all tracks on this album were hits or singles, they collectively demonstrate the charm and appeal of Mendes' music during this period. "Look Around," is well-represented with five tracks, reflecting its status as one of Mendes' most memorable works.

For those looking to explore Sergio Mendes' music on vinyl, "Greatest Hits" provides a delightful snapshot of his early career and the innovative sound that brought Brazilian music to a global audience.

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Rubén Blades - Paraiso Road Gang (2019)

"Paraiso Road Gang," released in 2019 by Rubén Blades, a 17-time Grammy and Latin Grammy Award winner, is a mix of rock, jazz, and Latin music in Spanish and English.

It starts with the strong protest song "No Te Calles," a collaboration with Making Movies from Kansas City. The album features only Panamanian artists, with guest appearances by Pash and Horacio Valdes, adding to its diverse sound. Tracks like "El País," "Love Me or Leave Me," and "Panama Gris" take you through different musical styles. Songs like "Nación Rica, Nación Pobre" and "Templo de Agua" provide thoughtful social commentary.

Blades shows his versatility and dedication to making music that connects with people on different levels by including original songs and collaborations.

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Joe Cuba Sextet - Vagabundeando! Hangin' Out Reissue (1964)

In honor of the 60th anniversary of the Joe Cuba Sextet's debut on Tico Records, Craft Latino is releasing the classic album "Vagabundeando! (Hangin' Out!)" on vinyl for the first time in almost fifty years.

This 1964 LP has been remastered from analog sources, pressed on 180-gram vinyl, and comes in a jacket replicating the original artwork. The album features renowned Puerto Rican vocalists Cheo Feliciano and Jimmy Sabater, with popular songs like "El Ratón," "Nina Nina," and "I Need You." 

Joe Cuba, known as the "Father of Latin Boogaloo," was a key figure in New York's Latin soul scene. His band, the Joe Cuba Sextet, was established in 1954 and quickly gained popularity with their unique mix of Spanish and English lyrics, Afro-Cuban rhythms, jazz, and soul.

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Ravi Shankar - Shankar Family & Friends (1974)

"Shankar Family & Friends," released on George Harrison's Dark Horse Records in 1974, is an essential album that combines classical Indian music with Western rock and pop.

The album includes talented musicians like Tom Scott, Emil Richards, Billy Preston, Ringo Starr, and Jim Keltner, and renowned Indian classical musicians such as Alla Rakha, Aashish Khan, Shivkumar Sharma, and Hariprasad Chaurasia.

Shankar expertly combines traditional instruments with modern Wetern sounds, creating a cohesive and immersive piece. The flow of the songs on this side showcases Shankar's talent in creating a unified musical experience. With Dark Horse Shankar's launch by Dhani Harrison and Olivia Harrison in 2019, the reissue of "Shankar Family & Friends" revives this timeless fusion masterpiece. This album is a must-have for vinyl collectors, reflecting Ge Rge Harrison's deep love for Indian music and his successful efforts to connect cultures through Harrison's successful efforts to bridge cultural divides through music.

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Radio Tarifa - Rumba Argelina (1994)

"Rumba Argelina" is the first album by "Radio Tarifa, a "well-known music groupSpain'spain. The album combines Spanish and North African music in a unique way. It's like listening to a radio show from Tarifa, the southernmost point of Spain. The music includes traditional and modern instruments like guitar, buzuki, derbouka, ney, crum orn, Indian harmonium, saxophone, electric organ, and electric bass.

The album starts with the song "Rumba Argelina," mixing rumba and flamenco styles. "Oye, China" is a sad love song that blends plucked instruments with accordion and nsuri. "Lamma bada" is a faithful rendition of a popular Arab melody played with the group's favorite instruments.

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Gotan Project - La revancha del tango (2001)

The Gotan Project started in 2000 with the songs "El Capitalismo Foraneo" and "Triptico," which blended tango rhythms and instruments.

The album opens with "Queremos Paz," featuring accordion melodies and strong beats that combine traditional Argentinean tangos with modern breakbeats. Philippe Cohen Solal and Christoph H. Müller handle keyboards and beats, while Eduardo Makaroff plays guitar.

Gustavo Beytelmann on piano and Line Kruse on violin join in, enhancing tracks like "El Capitalismo Foraneo" and "Chunga's Revenge," where "ini Flores shines with his bandoneon skills. "Triptico" highlights Kruse's violin and dynamic background, reminiscent of St. Germaine's work but with a unique touch. The album also features a cover of "Last Tango in Paris" and songs like "Epoca" and "Santa Maria (del Buen Ayre)" with Cristina Villalonga on vocals. "La del Ruso" and a cover of Astor Piazzolla's "Vuelvo al Sur" pay tribute to tango's origins and heritage. American fans receive a bonus disc with remixes and a video for "Santa Maria."

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Irvine - Andy Igroup's Paul Brady Special Edition (Purple) (1976)

The 1976 album by Andy Irvine and Paul Brady, recorded at Rockfield Studios in rural Wales, stands as a definitive work in Irish traditional music.

With producer Donal Lunny and fiddler Kevin Burke also contributing, the album was destined for greatness. This "Special Edition" release includes a detailed booklet by writer Gareth Murphy. It offers an in-depth history, music analysis, and the album's enduring legacy, providing valuable insights into its creation and impact.

Musically, the album captures the essence of Irish tradition with a modern approach. The blend of nine traditional songs and one original composition by Irvine flows naturally, demonstrating the musicians' deep understanding and innovative spirit. The instrumental pieces, such as "Fred Finn’s Reel/Sailing Into Walpole’s Marsh" and "The Blarney Pilgrim," showcase mesmerizing ensemble playing with guitars, fiddle, mandolin, hurdy-gurdy, and bouzouki.

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