Momi Maiga – Kairo (Segell Microscopi, 2024)
Kairo, Momi Maiga’s second album, weaves together threads from his native Senegalese heritage with a mix of jazz, flamenco, Western classical, and Mediterranean nuances. This ambitious fusion of genres, performed with remarkable precision and authenticity, creates a profound sense of journeying across borders, both musical and geographical. Listening to Kairo is like tracing the currents of a river that flows across continents, from West Africa to Southern Europe, carrying with it fragments of stories, memories, and vibrant expressions of human experience.
Maiga’s kora work stands out as the album’s emotional core. The 21-stringed West African harp, traditionally used to accompany tales of old, is brought to life here not only a vehicle for melody but also a conversationalist, exchanging graceful phrases with the violin and cello, adding layers of complexity and character. Notably, at times, the kora’s harp-like qualities takes on a flamenco-inspired intensity.
Throughout Kairo, Maiga’s vocals anchor the album in a gentle, warm tone. Percussion also plays a vital role, grounding the music in the earthy rhythms of West Africa while embracing flamenco beats and other global influences.
Ahead of the album’s release, three previews were shared in sold-out pre-release concerts at Spain’s Aphònica Festival de la Veu de Banyoles, El Grec Festival in Barcelona, and the 43rd FIMPT Festival de Vilanova i la Geltrú. The album officially debuted at the Fira Mediterrània de Manresa on October 11, 2024, after which Maiga embarked on an international tour with performances at festivals like Oslo World, Molde Mundo, and Tromsø World Festival.
Momi Maiga is a a renowned Senegalese musician, composer, and singer At 27, Maiga has captivated audiences across Europe and received the 2024 Emerging Talent Award at the Alícia Awards by the Catalan Academy of Music.
Currently based in Spain, Maiga performs with a quartet. Musicians include Momi Maiga on kora and vocals; Aleix Tobias on drums and percussion; Carlos Montfort on violin, baritone violin, electric bass; and Marçal Ayats on cello.
Produced by Carlos Montfort and Momi Maiga.
Buy Kairo.
Author: Madison Quinn
