Afel Bocoum (Mali)

WORLD MUSIC

Sahara blues with the celebrated DESERT BLUES star from Mali. Afel Bocoum comes from Niafunké, situated on the banks of the mighty Niger, less than three hours' drive southwest of Timbuktu. The singer and guitarist not only played and sang alongside his childhood friend, the great Ali Farka Touré, in his band for 38 years from 1968, but is also considered his legitimate successor with his magnificent solo work, albeit a touch more earthy and “African” than his great mentor. The splendor of his music stands in stark contrast to the situation in his country of origin, Mali. Ethnic conflicts have been escalating for years, fueled by Islamist terrorist commandos and encouraged by a corrupt, weak state whose governments are regularly ousted from office by the military. Afel Bocoum counters this with his music. Deeply rooted in West African music culture and equally interwoven with the world, the songs tell stories and call for dialog and reconciliation.

“Afel's voice is one of Mali's treasures, and this record is a gift to us all.” (Nick Gold)

“His music is sound that has become landscape, constant, of hypnotic beauty.” (Jazzthetik, 10/1999)

•     Afel Bocoum - lead vocals and guitar.
•     Ali Traore - guitar and backing vocals
•     Mahalmane Traore - calabash, drums and backing vocals

Ticket reservations

•     Box office: € 32.- (members € 29.-)
•     With reservation: € 29.- (members € 26.-)
•     Reservation: 03682/23250 or office@ccw.st
•     Pupils, apprentices, students, job seekers, people with disabilities: € 10.-

If you cannot reach us personally, please leave your ticket reservation(s) on the tape/answering machine.