WOMAD

Kandia Kouyate

From Mali

Biography from Stern's, LondonFor sheer power and beauty of voice, few can match Mali's Kandia Kouyate, a voice considered as a national treasure. Her first solo international album 'Kita Kan', at last reveals the full force of her magnificent, powerful contralto voice, which ranges from the deep classical style of ancient Mali to the luscious rolling melodies of her native Kita.Kandia's beautiful voice is matched with a gift for poetic lyrics and a dynamic stage presence. At her concerts in Bamako, one often sees members of the audience literally rooted to the spot as she plunges into an improvisation, or swirls around a long sustained note. They say her singing makes them feel dizzy, as if drunk on her voice. This has earned her the epithet 'la dangerouse'.Press:"Kita Kan is the celebratory showcase of a true diva. You're in the presence of greatness."Sarah Coxson - Folk Roots"...an international star in the making"Robin Denselew - The Guardian"A female Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, fireworks and all."JC - Straight No Chaser