What Was On

West African multi-instrumentalist and composer Amadou Diagne has musical roots tracing back through a long line of Griot musicians. A member of L’Orchestra National du Senegal, Amadou regularly performed as a percussionist in concerts, cultural events and on television for the top West African stars. Since moving to England, Amadou has forged his own musical identity and released acclaimed solo albums featuring through the kora, guitar and percussion, which have received air play on BBC Radio 3 and across the world.

Franco-American guitarist and songwriter Cory Seznec comes from the American tradition of fingerpicking guitar, blues and ragtime, but three years living in Ethiopia and Kenya further enriched his style.

When Amadou and Cory had a chance encounter in a bar in Bath in 2007, they knew one day they would record together. Thirteen years later, after many “touki” (journeys), the duo embarked on a new musical adventure with their debut album Right of Passage.

Drawing heavily on the traditional music and rhythms of West Africa, the kora dances playfully around banjo and the guitar. The calabash and other percussion add powerful, driving beats, overlaid with entrancing, silky vocals. The influences are many, rather than remaining in any one tradition. The touki brought them together, the touki took them apart. Now the voyagers are reunited with the richness of their various experiences. Who knows what’s in store?

Touring Dorset with Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity.

Amadou Diagne – Musician