Speaking of Which & West African rhythm Kings, Keyim Ba

Headlining the show is West African rhythm Kings, KEYIM BA. I so hope we’re allowed to dance again by then, because this groups just makes you want to jump up and groove.

Alternative Indie Pop band SPEAKING OF WHICH opens the show – another ‘EL Discovery’ that we’re thrilled to showcase. Can’t wait to receive your feedback… we think they’re awesome!

KEYIM BA translates in English to ‘very beautiful’…  and this is one very beautiful band.

With a rhythm section born in West Africa, this brilliant 8 piece combo. has an intoxicating upbeat sound, bringing influences of Reggae, Funk and Rap to West African grooves. Led by the ever charismatic Sibo Bangoura (originally from Guinea), KEYIM BA has enormous energy, giving tradition a modern twist.

Embracing percussive as well as melodic pieces, KEYIM BA offers a show of explosive and powerful African drumming and high energy dance, while also capturing the alluring sounds of West African melodies, highlighted by Sibo’s playing of the Kora (West African harp) and the Balafon.

SPEAKING OF WHICH won the Judge’s Choice category in the 2020 Northern Composure Band Competition run by Northern Beaches Council. Two of the Judges on Finals night were famous brothers Oli and Louis Leimbach of Lime Cordiale* – winners of the Breakthrough Artist Award at the 2020 ARIAS.

The brothers had themselves competed in Northern Composure when still at school and loved the opportunity for things to come full circle and judge the Comp. themselves. They were extremely impressed by the Brookvale-based 5 piece unit who were the unanimous choice of all Judges for the title.

Not surprisingly, S O W lists Lime Cordiale as an inspiration, alongside WA Psych Rockers, Spacey Jane and Kiwi group Fat Freddy’s Drop.