Biography
Hailing from Gambia, Ifang Bondi ranks among the most thrilling ensembles to arise there. Their dynamic rhythms underpin vocal harmonies intertwined with the melodies of kora, guitar, and keyboards, propelling the ensemble swiftly to the leading edge of Afromanding music. In 1998, Q magazine hailed the band's first release, Gis Gis, as "the best world music album of the year". Meaning "be yourself" in the Fula tongue spoken by Fulani nomads, Ifang Bondi initially centered on Western popular music before turning, from the early 1970s onward, toward their African heritage. This direction embodies the vision of leader Badou Jobe, who previously played bass in the Super Eagles, alongside Lin Diaw on guitar, Juldeh Camara handling vocals, El Hadj Samb delivering lead vocals, Momodou Susa contributing kora, vocals, and percussion, Ebou Gaye on African percussion and vocals, plus Tafa Ndiaye at the keyboards and Maniaye Diop on drums. Certain members also appear in the Tiramakhan Ensemble to highlight Susa's kora work and in Sabar Rek, a "drums only" project emphasizing the band's percussionists. Jobe earned the KORA All Africa Music Award for "Best Arranger" in 1999 due to his contributions to Gis Gis.