Dawda Jobarteh, Stefan Pasborg announce release date for Live In Turku album

The seven-track offering, recorded live at Flame Jazz in Turku, Finland, blends traditional West African sounds with contemporary jazz and more. It’s a follow-up to their 2016 release DUO.

Tracks such as ‘Togo’, originally recorded in 1979 by a band consisting of American multi-instrumentalist and composer Ornette Coleman, honour jazz’s roots in African music, while original compositions like ‘Communication of a Kind’ highlight the duo’s improvisational skill and limitless creativity.

“At the heart of Live In Turku lies a deep connection between two extraordinary musicians,” a statement reads. “Jobarteh brings his soul-stirring melodies and innovative approach to the traditional instrument  –  going electric and drawing from the explosive energy of Jimi Hendrix in jangling improvisations soaked in psychedelic futurism. Meanwhile, Pasborg, renowned for his dynamic drumming style and eclectic musical palette sits somewhere between Art Blakey, Mitch Mitchell and John Bonham, providing a rhythmic foundation that propels the music to new heights.”

Jobarteh, hailing from Brikama, Gambia, was born into a musical family, with his uncle and grandfather esteemed as kora masters. Initially schooled in various percussion instruments by his uncle, he later discovered the 21-stringed kora during his time in Denmark. He has since embarked on global tours with Pierre Dørge & New Jungle Orchestra and has released five well-received albums under his own name.

Stefan Pasborg, on the other hand, was mentored by renowned Danish drummer Alex Riel, and is known for his unique grasp of African music. He has collaborated extensively with artists such as Morocco’s Majid Bekkas and their joint project Magic Spirit Quartet, as well as the Danish trio Ibrahim Electric.