Originally formed for a collaborative project with the Kronos Quartet, Trio Da Kali unites three remarkable musicians from the Mande griot tradition of southern Mali. Hawa Kassé Mady Diabaté, daughter of legendary griot singer Kassé Mady Diabaté, is the trio’s vocalist; her rich, expressive voice and natural vibrato are reminiscent of the great Mahalia Jackson. The balafonist (and the trio’s musical director) is Lassana Diabaté, one of Mali’s most distinguished musicians. The youngest member is bass ngoni player Mamadou Kouyaté, who brings a contemporary feel to the traditions he learned from his father, Bassekou Kouyaté. “Steeped in tradition, these three brilliant musicians give a new voice to timeless sounds.” (Songlines).
Presented in partnership with the IU African Studies Program.