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Arts at the Armory Presents Djékady with Balla Kouyaté and Mike Block

  • Arts at the Armory 191 Highland Avenue Somerville, MA, 02143 United States (map)

Arts at the Armory presents Djékady, a six-piece band led by Grammy-winning musicians Balla Kouyaté and Mike Block that blends Malian music with American folk and contemporary styles.

Djékady, a Mandinka phrase that means “coming together is good,” is a fiery six-piece band led by Grammy-winning musicians Balla Kouyaté (balafon, vocals) and Mike Block (cello, vocals) that puts Malian music into conversation with American folk music and contemporary styles. Featuring Mamoudou Konate (djembe), Idrissa Koné (talking drum, calabash, percussion, vocals), Luke Okerlund (guitar), and Mike Rivard (bass, sintir), the band’s energetic nature and deep appreciation for each other’s cultures create an unexpected and beautiful display of music without limitations.

This special concert is also the Boston release party celebrating their debut album Benkan.

Doors 5:00pm, Show 6:00pm.

Get your tickets here!