Ballaké Sissoko
Few modern-day artists have mastered the kora quite like Paris-based, Malian musician Ballaké Sissoko. Over the past few decades, the masterful player has transported listeners to realms of solace and empowerment through his melodic and utterly intoxicating compositions. What makes Sissoko’s discography so special is the fact that he’s continually pushed the boundaries of the art of kora playing whilst staying rooted to tradition. That’s exactly the case with ‘Djourou’, Sissoko’s latest studio album which dropped earlier this year and features collaborations with the likes of Sona Jobareth, Patrick Messina, Vincent Ségal, Salif Keita and more.