Blog

Alpha Yaya Diallo (prounounced “jallow”) is a revered Guinean-born guitarist, who has a longstanding relationship with the Harrison Festival ever since he first performed here with worldbeat group Fatala in the very early 1990s. His style draws on a range of West African guitar traditions, and reflects his own Foulani background along with other cultures and traditions of Guinea, Senegal and even the Caribbean and Cape Verde. The fluid melodic lines of his guitar playing, both acoustic and electric, are complemented by an echo of the balafon, kora, ngoni, bass and drums to create a West-African sound that is both nomadic and generous. Since settling in Vancouver he has primarily led his own bands and has been awarded multiple Junos.

Mimi O’Bonsawin is a contemporary roots singer-songwriter born in Northeastern Ontario of mixed French Canadian & Abénaki heritage, and is a member of Odanak First-Nation. Through her rhythm, story-driven songs, and generous spirit, Mimi’s music embraces the beauty of the land. The ethereal quality of her music whisks you away with uplifting melodies and introspective lyrics that weave pop sensibilities with acoustic instruments. The layers of percussion and surprising harmonies make you feel the music rather than just hear it. She performs with her husband Ryan Schurman on drums and percussion.

Originally from Bucharest, now in Vancouver, violinist Lache Cercel has created the new musical genre Roma jazz, by merging Eastern influences with western musicology. In celebration of his multi-cultural influence in music, this unique collaboration features a selection of highly regarded musicians, singers and dancers. He plays with the outrageous virtuosity found in contemporary European Roma recordings, and adds his own vision to this deeply rooted tradition, revealing the history of tragedy, struggle and ultimate survival that is part of Roma music.