An audience journeyed to the far realms of Africa and back last night, listening for the first time perhaps to the sounds of the banjo combine with that of the kora. Rhythms hopped, and at times slowly melted between African and Appalachia; the banjo actually comes from West Africa.
A griot, Mansa Sissoko narrated several ancient stories from his home country, Mali. His vocals and kora gave musical voice to stories that relate the importance of many rituals throughout human cultures: hunting, birth, death. The smell of West Grove, PA mushroom production wafted through the West Grove Friends Meeting House, and Jayme gave thanks to the farmers who also contribute to the necessities of everyday life everywhere.
Turtledove Folk Club hosts a musical performance each month. Check out their website for more information on the next performer, Spook Handy, who will play Saturday, October 25. Concerts run monthly through May. Last night Jayme Stone played banjo, Mansa Sissoko the kora and vocals, Grant Gordy played guitar, and Harris Eisenstadt blended in percussion.
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