Experience the deep-rooted music and traditions of West Africa with a contemporary twist when Gambian born Jali Buba Kuyateh and his group Diyaa Looloo visit Don Russell Performing Arts Centre on Friday 20 July during a five-State national tour.

Jali Buba Kuyateh was born in to a famous Griot (career musician) family, which has performed to wide acclaim throughout West Africa for many years.

His previous Australian tour was in 2005 when he performed at some of the country’s top music festivals, including WOMADelaide, Woodford Folk Festival and Port Fairy Folk Festival.

Jali’s singing voice is reminiscent of the breathtaking Senegalese vocalist Youssou N’dour and he’s a master of the Kora, a 21 or 22-stringed instrument from the Mandinkan culture of West Africa.

The Kora is played by Griot family musicians, all of which are Jalis. In West African tradition, Jalis are oral historians, who attend all important cultural ceremonies and pass down their culture through music.

Performing with Jali is his group Diyaa Looloo. The polished group of performers includes Kuukua Acquah (dance/vocals), Aliou Sylla (percussion) and Nigel MacLean (violin) who each bring a wealth of experience in West African music and culture.

Jali’s fusion of West African musical traditions and styles is enhanced by a contemporary edge recently developed in Australia.

Admission is $16 standard, $14 concession or $11.70 for children under 12 or groups of ten or more.

For ticket bookings and enquires call The Don on T: 9493 4577.

Jali Buba Kuyateh and Diyaa Looloo will also perform at KULCHA on Monday 2 July. Booking and information available at www.kulcha.com.au .

“Jali Buba Kuyateh is a captivating performer with exceptional skill and emotional power.” – Doug De Vries, Australian guitar great

The Australian Government is proud to be associated with this tour through the national performing arts touring programme, Playing Australia, which gives Australians across the country the opportunity to see some of our best performing arts. Tour coordination and financial support by kultour and Country Arts WA.