The Senegalese kora player and songwriter, Youssoupha Cissokho, makes music that is steeped in his centuries-long griot heritage. On “Diassing Jalikunda” Youssoupha pays homage to that history, naming the album after the family compound in a small Casamance village that was home to many generations of his ancestors. However, Youssoupha, like the music on this record, is not limited by this living legacy. Rather than reflecting only the traditional kora repertoire, “Diassing Jalikunda” shines a light on Youssoupha’s songcraft. He creates music that is by turns mournful, introspective, and quietly uplifting. It is music that grows directly from the family courtyard in M’Bour, where the album was recorded. Here, his music floats on quiet night breezes. Once the children are put to bed, the family gathers, sipping strongly brewed tea late into the night. As evening settles in, Youssoupha’s hands and breath propel his songs into the night. Some listen closely, while others carry on their business. “Diassing Jalikunda” opens a window into the musical world of a great Senegalese artist, honors his legacy, and captures a moment in the space where Youssoupha lives his life and creates his timeless art.

credits

released May 11, 2020

All Songs Composed and Performed by Youssoupha Cissokho.
Produced by Jonathan Henderson.
Recorded, Edited and Mixed by Jonathan Henderson.
Mastered by Jason Richmond.
Recorded in November and December of 2019 at Dialikunda in M’Bour, Senegal.