Biography
Over their first two years as a unit, Benkadi International transported the Mandinka musical traditions of Africa into Holland and the Netherlands. Jazz and funk elements found their way into the ensemble’s approach, yet the musicians kept traditional African instrumentation at the core of their performances.
The group took shape soon after Zoumani Diarra, a kora and guitar player already known for his solid reputation in Mali and the Ivory Coast, moved to Holland. Their debut album, Djoulolou, appeared in October 1998.
The group took shape soon after Zoumani Diarra, a kora and guitar player already known for his solid reputation in Mali and the Ivory Coast, moved to Holland. Their debut album, Djoulolou, appeared in October 1998.
Albums
Live
