“Koya Blues” (2016) – Abou Diarra

It’s important to distinguish the instrument Abou Diarra plays as a kamale ngoni (or “hunter’s harp”), which is larger than the uke-size ngoni and probably more suitable for a “Jimi Hendrix of…” stage presence. An even larger harp called the donso ngoni would only anchor him down. The Malian prodigy learned how to play from the late master Vieux Kanté and with his third album Koya (named after his mother), he demonstrates the instrument’s flexibility and accessibility. Listen to “Koya Blues,” featuring Paris scenesters Vincent Bucher (harmonica) and Simon Winse (flute) and hear for yourself.