Two decades after their initial collaboration, singer-songwriter Piers Faccini and Malian kora maestro Ballaké Sissoko are set to release a new album, Our Calling, on…
Piers Faccini and Ballaké Sissoko Reveal ‘Borne on the Wind’ Single
Tag: kora
Kora to the Core
American kora players aren’t exactly commonplace, so the work of Kane Mathis is not only noteworthy for his individuality, but for his expertise. He leads…
Australia’s The Mandé Spirit Celebrate Malian musician Toumani Diabate
(headline image: The Mandé Spirit — Photo by Kurt Eckardt) On December 6th, an ensemble of musicians from the West African diaspora gathered in an…
The Kora: West Africa’s Cherished 21-Stringed Harp-Lute
(headline image: Toumani and Sidiki Diabate – Photo by Youri Lenquette) The kora, a 21-stringed instrument, holds a significant place in West African musical traditions,…
Kairo: Momi Maiga’s Bridge-Building Kora Fusion
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,…
Sefo Kanuteh Goes Acoustic on Mesmerizing Album ‘Afou’
Sefo Kanuteh – Afou (self-released, 2021) Afou is the second kora and balafon album Sefo Kanuteh player released in 2021. Afou, recorded with UK-based musicians,…
Sefo Kanuteh’s Dynamic Afro-Roots Ensemble Album
Sefo Kanuteh – Adouna (self-released, 2021) Sefo Kanuteh, a talented kora and balafon player from The Gambia, released two new albums in 2021, funded by…
Brilliant Kora Maestro Toumani Diabaté Dies at 58
(Headline image: Toumani Diabaté – Photo by Aboubaker Sidick) Malian kora virtuoso Toumani Diabaté passed away on 19 July 2024 of kidney disease. He was…
Arnito and Adama Koeta Deliver Skillful Guitar and Kora Dialog
Prolific French guitarist Arnito duets with kora player Adama Koeta on “After Work,” a deftly played piece of music that bridges African, flamenco, Roma, and…
Toumani Diabaté and Ballaké Sissoko’s “New Ancient Strings” to Be Released on Vinyl
Toumani Diabaté and Ballaké Sissoko‘s New Ancient Strings will be released on vinyl for the first time to commemorate the album’s 25th anniversary. Originally launched…