Trio Da Kali and Kronos Quartet - Ladilikan review: scattering across Africa

Kronos Quartet are no strangers to African music. 1992's Pieces of Africa ranged widely, while two tracks on Rokia Traoré's quietly radical Bowmboi (2003) are an early precursor to this latest encounter.

Trio Da Kali, from Mali and Guinea, have only released an EP to date, but are of impeccable pedigree with Kasse Mady Diabaté and Bassekou Kouyaté among the antecedents. Hawa Kasse Mady’s sumptuous vocals have been compared to Mahalia Jackson (a remarkable gospel number is included here), while Fodé Lassana is a balafon player of the highest artistry.

Kronos here are frequently in full-blooded engagement, whether in rhythmic propulsion, whole-quartet solos, or the climactic shrieks and rasps of Eh Ya Ye. Elsewhere they offer respectful, sensitive underpinning and beautiful interplay. A collaborative triumph. worldcircuit.co.uk