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Concert Review
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Dr. Rhythm, Concert Review >>
August was bracketed by a pair of West African concerts in the Bay Area that showcased two of the best living guitarists in the world: Sekou Diabate Bembeya and Djelimadi Tounkara. The Bembeya Jazz concert on Sunday Aug 3 was perfect. it was a hot day and it went well -- apart from the people milling about and the set-up leaving no ideal point to see, hear or dance. Bleachers had been set up in front of the stage where dancers wanted to go. People sat rapt as if they were in church. At tables, further back, we couldn't see too well but the sound was good. The only distraction was people on cell phones walking past and yelling "Can you hear me now? OK, can you see me? I'm standing by the tables!" It was a great show, a bit too short, but we got to experience the full ensemble and marvel at these guys -- some of whom are older than me! -- dancing and singing and turning it out. Sekou Diabate (aka Diamond Fingers) even played the tune that combines Franco's "Liwa ya Wech" with Jeff Beck's "Foot-tapper," a remarkable blend. And they did "Yelema Yelemaso," their tribute to Dr Nico with Hawaiian slide. The next night I was privileged to have dinner with the band and get to know them a bit. 08/31/03
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