Franco-Burkinabè group Kankélé return with “Bala Groove,” the lead single from their upcoming album Essential Groove, out in September, a bold fusion of Mandé tradition, jazz, blues, funk and Afro-groove.

The track sets out their signature “Mandé ni Wassolo Bala Groove” sound, shaped under the direction of Burkinabè composer and multi-instrumentalist Oumarou Bambara (aka Mandela). Balafon leads the charge, woven through Sabar rhythms, Senegalese percussion and a taut, groove-driven rhythm section.

Sung in Bambara, Soussou, Wolof and Spanish, the album reflects Kankélé’s multilingual, cross-cultural foundation. “Bala Groove” expands their sound while holding fast to the pulse of West African tradition.

You can find more info and follow Kankelé HERE