Kankou

Kuma Kankou

Kankou Kouyate is a singer and songwriter, descended from three generations of Mali's greatest n'goni players. Her versatility and readiness to explore the possibilities of musical exchanges have allowed her to work with many of the most respected artists in Mali, including Toumani Diabate, Bassekou Kouyate and Cheick Tidiane Seck. She participated alongside Damon Albarn, Brian Eno, Nick Zinner and the Africa Express collective. Kankou met the Scottish musician and producer Mark Mulholland in Bamako. The musical connection between them became clear from their first meeting and the two artists created a repertoire of original songs ranging from acoustic folk and hypnotic blues to psychedelic rock, blending African and western influences in a fresh and innovative style. In order to incorporate electronic elements into the project, Mark called on the Parisian musician Olaf Hund, a friend and collaborator, with whom he had worked on the album "The Afro-Haitian Experimental Orchestra", with Tony Allen. The mixture of electronic beats with rock-, blues-and folk-flavoured guitar and Kankou's magical voice create a unique and enchanting musical tapestry.