Live @ Levon Helm Studios (2025)

"Mandé Sila, a new acoustic project led by Malian guitarist and singer Habib Koité, brings together celebrated ambassadors of West African traditions. The quartet includes the great Habib Koité on guitar: 'magic balafon' player Aly Keïta (Ivory Coast); kora master player Lamine Cissokho (Senegal), and Koité’s longtime Malian collaborator Mama Koné on percussion. The group takes its name from the Manding concept 'Mandé Sila', that honors the languages, cultures, and music of the historic empire and wider West Africa. The exquisite album contains a set of dazzling, agile, and inventive performances. Their playing balances discipline, conversation, and virtuosity with wit and curiosity. The ensemble’s current lineup: Habib Koité on guitar, lead vocals; Aly Keïta on balafon; Lamine Cissokho on kora, backing vocals; and Mama Koné on calabash, jembe, backing vocals." (World Music Central)