Bamba Wassoulou Groove, an ensemble that emerged in 2012 in Bamako, Mali, represents a fervent endeavor by Bamba Dembelé, a co-founder of the iconic Super Djata Band, to rejuvenate the sonic essence of this legendary group from the 1970s and early 1980s. Demonstrating his skill as a conga player, Bamba Dembelé rallied a cohort of budding musicians and extended an invitation to Moussa Diabaté, a guitarist, and Maguett Diop, a drummer hailing from Super Rail Band, to partake in this artistic undertaking.
In 2015, Bamba Wassoulou Groove introduced their inaugural opus, “Farima,” featuring a selection of classic tracks that had gained prominence through Zani Diabaté’s Super Djata Band, alongside new compositions. Noteworthy entries such as the spirited “Siguigniossonfo” and the dynamic “Batjila” found their place on this release. Notably, during live performances, the group pays homage to the late luminaries of Super Djata by adopting a humble posture, with all band members assuming a kneeling position as they render the heartfelt tribute of “Yacouba.” This gesture resonates as a testament to the profound respect they hold for departed icons such as Zani, Flani Sangaré, and Alou Fané.
The vocalist, Ousmane Diakité, exhibits commendable prowess as he skillfully interprets the songs once sung by the esteemed Daouda ‘Flani’ Sangaré, while guitarist Bayni Diabaté convincingly executes the intricate melodic tapestry woven by the revered maestro Zani Diabaté. The incandescent aura of Bamba Wassoulou Groove graced the European stage during their 2015 tour, and the ensemble embarked on subsequent ventures throughout the spring and summer of 2016.
Regrettably, Bamba Dembelé, the indomitable force behind this musical assemblage, passed away in late 2018, leaving an indelible mark on the legacy of Malian music.
The original lineup of Bamba Wassoulou Groove consisted of Ousmane Diakité on vocals; Bamba Dembelé on congas; Bayni Diabaté on lead guitar; Moussa Diabaté on second solo guitar; Dramane Diarra on accompanying guitar; Aboubacar ‘Papis’ Diombana on bass; and Maguett Diop on drums.
(headline image: Bamba Wassoulou Groove – Photo by Olivier Barau)
Discography:
Farima (Label Bleu LBLC 2604, 2015)
Dankele: Live Sessions (Lusafrica, 2019)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.