Following

Malian-born Pédro Kouyaté has made his way in music as a disciple of Toumani Diabaté, a member of the Symétric Orchestra in Bamako and as touring calabash player with Boubacar Traoré. He settled in Paris in 2006 and since then has often performed in the subway, where he rehearsed and enhanced most of his tunes. “It’s special for an African to perform underground, given our perception of the hereafter”, he says, “It’s also a way to remind me that I’ve learnt everything from the streets.” Following, his new album, blends traditional kora, ngoni and percussion with blues, slam declamations and a glimpse of electronics. It was produced by Quai Son Records, a subdivision of Jazz Indépendent, and welcomes renowned guests such as bluesman Big Daddy Wilson, rapper Oxmo Puccino, trumpeter Erik Truffaz, drummer Manu Katché and singer Arthur H. A very thoughtful modern journey through ancient spirits.