Jaaleekaay, a West African word in the Wolof language meaning “crossing point” is the perfect name for the extraordinary musical collaboration between renowned Australian guitarist Steve Berry (Kev Carmody, Shane Howard, Robyn Archer) and two of Gambia’s leading musicians; Yusupha Ngum (vocals) and Amadou Suso (Kora). It’s a combination that stems from a fortuitous meeting in The Gambia, and makes for an intriguing mix of contemporary musical prowess and deep cultural tradition.
Ngum is from a ‘griot’ family and his late father Musa Ngum was one of West Africa’s most renowned singers and proponents of Mbalax musical tradition. Suso is a direct descendent of Korea Musa Suso, also a ‘griot’ musician, who first introduced the Kora to the world 760 years ago. Together with Berry they are capturing hearts and minds with a style that continues to build connections between Gambia and and the global music scene In 2013-14, touring Australia for the first time, the band received rave reviews and standing ovations at a number of festivals (Woodford, Port Fairy, Mullumbimby) and with new music in hand will return to our shores in 2016.
The Jaaleekaay Story https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JL61W5TQl9M
For more info and Tickets click here.
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