Hailing from a Griot family in Gambia, Sura Susso is a prodigious kora player, percussionist and composer. Sura has toured globally as part of the popular Seckou Keita Quintet, played with Baaba Maal at Glastonbury, and has even performed for the Queen.

 

Sura’s debut album Sila Kang (2011) enjoyed critical acclaim and extensive radio airplay. Now ten years after his debut, Sura releases his much anticipated second album Tili Saba. 

 

For this exclusive session for Africa in the Lounge, Sura will perform acoustic versions of some of the songs from the album, joined by the golden voice of Binta Suso and the talented Suntou Susso on percussion.

Re-defining the Afro-Funk genre, Afrik Bawantu was formed in 2007 by Ghanaian vocalist and djembe drummer Afla Sackey. It brings to life his musical dream of blending traditional Ghanaian music with sizzling Afrobeat grooves and an irresistibly funky twist. 

 

Their first EP Noko Hewon (2013) was released to huge critical acclaim, while their highly anticipated debut album Life On The Street (2014) shook up the new music scene with their fast, animated horn sections, heavy bass lines and vibrant African rhythms. We’re proud to bring the 10-piece to Brighton to perform for you as part of Africa in the Lounge. 

A wholehearted expression of devotion, Gnawa London is the project of Moroccan Berber Simo Lagnawi. Lagnawi was raised in the Islamic Gnawa tradition and remains true to his musical heritage that combines ritual poetry with music and dancing. Whether performing in crossover groups or hosting traditional ceremonial evenings known as Lilas, the intention is always to bring the same healing energy to the fore in each new creation.

Lagnawi was nominated for two Songlines awards in 2014 (Best Artist and Best Newcomer) while his first solo debut album Gnawa London was named by Songlines Magazine as one of their Top World Albums. Lagnawi has performed at Glastonbury, Secret Garden Party, Latitude, Boom Town and many more, so we are delighted to be bringing his captivating devotional sounds to Africa in the Lounge.