Mandé Sila
featuring Habib Koité, Aly Keïta, Lamine Cissokho & Mama Koné
Three standard-bearers of West African musical traditions come together to celebrate Mandé Sila: the way of the Mandingo empire, symbolizing languages, cultures, music, and the entire organology of West Africa.
One of Africa’s most popular and recognized musicians, Habib Koité is a modern troubadour with extraordinary appeal due to his musicianship, wit, and wisdom. The Kora player Lamine Cissokho is the descendant of a famous griot family whose traditions date back to the 14th century, passing traditional pieces down from generation to generation.
Aly Keïta gained worldwide recognition for his mastery of the balafon, impressive virtuosity, and unique sound. Three virtuoso artists linked by the same cultural heritage; a melting pot that inspires their compositions and sublimates the renewal of the genre.
Joining the trio onstage will be Habib’s long-time percussionist, Mama Koné (Djembe, Calabash, electronic pad) who has also performed with Eric Bibb.
Mandé Sila was founded for the extensive US tour last year November. It was so successful that they have decided to continue as a group. In April 2025, a live album will be released, recorded in the legendary Levon Helms Studio in Woodstock.
