KANAZOÉ ORCHESTRA | Burkina Faso

Seydou Diabaté, who goes by the nickname Kanazoé, is known across the African continent as the young balafon genius. He combines an extreme technique with highly developed creativity and musicality, and 'owns' the instrument!   

Kanazoé was born in Burkina Faso, in the village of Sambla de Toronso. There they don't just play the balafon, they talk with this instrument, and from the age of 5 Seydou was with his father when he played at traditional ceremonies, or when they would encourage workers in the fields to do their best. He lost his parents before he was 10, and then ended up being apprenticed to an uncle until he was skilled enough to manage on his own – on the balafon. In 2010, the trip went to France, and the Kanazoé Orchestra saw the light of day. Now he could finally make his dream come true: to develop and spread his musical tradition together with musicians with different thoughts and horizons than himself, and to take the balafon to ever new areas. 

Kanazoé Orkestra blends ancient balafon traditions with more modern African and urban rhythms, exploring afrobeats, amapiano and afro-trap while at the same time honoring their Sambla roots. Now Kanazoé Orkestra is ready for their first concert in Norway, and everything is set for a wonderful summer party in our park! 

Seydou "Kanazoé" Diabaté - balafon, vocals

Mamadou "Madou" Dembélé - balafon, n'goni, flute, vocals

Losso Keïta - vocals

Martin Etienne - keyboards, saxophone

Emilio Rudoy - bass

Laurent Planells - percussion