Sidi Touré (pictured) draws inspiration from traditional Malian music and religion, but is informed by western blues, rock, and culture. The winner of two Malian national awards for best singer, Touré was leader of a regional orchestra and is a nationally renowned figure in his home country. In 2011, he released Sahel Folk, his critically acclaimed debut album and toured North America for the first time playing at prestigious venues including Lincoln Center and the ChicagoWorld Music Festival. His 2012 follow-up, Koïma is a musically rich and luxurious album mixing tradition and modernity, African magic and city-dwelling dilemmas.
The Pedrito Martinez Group has its roots planted firmly in the Afro-Cuban rumba tradition, bata rhythms and vocal chants of Yoruba and Santeria. Helmed by famed Cuban percussionist Pedrito Martinez — who has lent his unique hand drumming skills to over a hundred records spanning the worlds of Latin and pop music — the group has toured internationally, gaining a steady fan base for its mix of Caribbean inspired funk. The New York Times sums up their sound up aptly, calling it, “complex, blenderized Africa-to-the-New-World funk.”
Wouter Kellerman’s live shows demonstrate why he is regarded as one of South Africa’s most musically adventurous world-music proponents, incorporating a fusion of influences and styles into his music – from South African sounds and rhythms to Irish influences, from traditional Senegalese songs to tango-inspired numbers. His concert is an extraordinary opportunity for local audiences to experience an exciting array of musical styles emanating from Kellerman’s flute. Supported by an ensemble of wonderful artists, they unite to create a fresh and exhilarating performance with beautiful vocals, flute artistry and exciting African dance.
New York City, NY; NYC