Alpha Yaya Diallo

On his first solo recording, West African musician Alpha Yaya Diallo played all the instruments himself and sang. Usually that's a recipe for disaster, but in his case it worked. Mostly known as a guitarist, Diallo played with various bands in Guinea before joining up the folkloric group Fatala in Europe, with whom he played numerous WOMAD festivals. Eventually he settled in Vancouver, Canada, and assembled a Worldbeat band, playing a range of styles but focusing on the music of his Manding heritage. Living up to the Guinean reputation of playing fast, precise guitar, Diallo incorporates the traditional kora (21-stringed African harp) and balafon (wooden xylophone) into his electric mix. He's sings in various African languages, French, and English, and his high-ranging voice is melodious and rich in subtle cadence modulations. At his best, Diallo creates neo-traditional Afro-Pop that's catchy and uplifting, but composed of complex musical textures.