“Never again will we listen to the balafon in the same way,” (Le Monde, 2025). Strikingly modern and spirited, Kanazoé Orkestra’s sound combines the balafon and drums of Mandinka and Sambla traditions with Nigerian Afrobeat and South African amapiano, along with a good dose of irresistible rap and electro groove. With electrifying energy, the ensemble—led by the charming and brilliant Seydou Diabaté, whose balafon technique is simply breathtaking—celebrates Africa and the universality of its rhythms, bringing ancient traditions to life at 200 bpm! With humanity and social awareness, Kanazoé Orkestra’s fourth album, Balabeatz (2025), speaks to the world by embracing the vibes of its time, without ever losing sight of its roots.
