Toumani Diabaté (1965-2024)

The great Malian kora master Toumani Diabaté died last week at age 58; the Times obituary says the cause of death was kidney failure.

I think I first became aware of Diabaté's music through Bela Fleck's documentary Throw Down Your Heart. I sought out The Mandé Variations and then this record, made with his son Sidiki.

The entire record is magnificent, but I particularly admire the track entitled "Lampedusa," which the Guardian, in its review, called "a gently exquisite lament for African migrants who died trying to reach Europe."

Toumani Diabaté was descended from a long line of Malian kora players, but like many of the best traditional musicians he completely reconceived what could be done with the instrument.