She is one of the defining voices of contemporary American roots music. Like few other artists in the United States, singer, banjo player and composer Rhiannon Giddens from North Carolina brings together folk, country, soul, gospel and musical traditions from around the world. In her »Reflektor« revue, she unfolds this rich musical spectrum alongside a group of friends and collaborators.
Rhiannon Giddens has little use for genres. To her, they are simply categories created for racist, nationalist or commercial purposes. With her voice, she moves effortlessly between perspectives—and even between worlds. Under the title »The People Could Fly – African Diasporic Re-Connections Across the Atlantic«, Giddens and her eight guests embark on an exploration of cultural exchange between continents that is as profound as it is entertaining.
Joining her are long-time kindred spirit Leyla McCalla from New Orleans and former bandmate Justin Robinson of the folk pioneers Carolina Chocolate Drops. From the other side of the Atlantic come guitarist Niwel Tsumbu, kora virtuoso Seckou Keita and Gnawa musician Mehdi Nassouli. Together, they trace the African roots that have profoundly shaped the musical culture of the United States. Through her work, Giddens advocates for a more open, inclusive and historically informed understanding of music and cultural identity.
PERFORMERS
Rhiannon Giddens vocals
Mazz Swift violin, vocals
Justin Robinson violin, vocals
Leyla McCalla banjo, guitar, vocals
Justin Harrington banjo, bones, vocals
Niwel Tsumbu guitar, vocals
Sallay-Matu Garnett guitar, vocals
Mehdi Nassouli gimbri, vocals
Seckou Keita kora, vocals
Éamonn Cagney percussion
PROGRAM
»The People Could Fly«
African Diasporic Re-Connections Across the Atlantic
