Balla Kouyate

The Balan Fanga Project showcases the West African balafon: think xylophone, but made from wood and gourds, with a richer, earthier sound. Born in Mali, Balla Kouyaté has an unparalleled knowledge of traditional repertoire and has been a member of the Ensemble Nationale du Mali. (A Malian 1000-year-old balafon belonging to his family is a UNESCO Artifact of Oral and Intangible History.)