So Kono (2025)

"Keita’s songwriting process is based in repetition. Alone with his guitar, he explores simple riffs or chords until a melody emerges. He refines each phrase over hours, shaping lyrics to match the rhythm. Though he typically performs with full ensembles, his compositions begin in solitude. Despite encouragement, he resisted recording a solo guitar album, dismissing the idea as too stark. “I’m not a guitarist; I use the guitar to compose,” he often argued. For the first time, he agreed to record in an intimate acoustic setting, accompanied only by Badié Tounkara on ngoni and Mamadou Koné on percussion. The session took place in his hotel room, ensuring a relaxed and private atmosphere. The result is "So Kono", an elegant, welcoming and deeply emotive album whose title means 'In The House' and, more intimately, 'In The Room'. It marks a rare departure in Keita’s discography; an artist unplugged, alone with his timeless guitar, capturing the raw essence of his music." (World Music Central)