Raised in the village of Tabato, Guinea-Bissau, Kimi Djabaté is a composer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist carrying on the tradition and heritage of the griots, hereditary singer-poets.  Playing acoustic guitar, balafón (African xylophone) and bongos, Dindin (meaning “children” in the Mandinga language) features the rhythmic and melodic interplay of the band’s smooth vocals and soulful instrumentation that also includes electric guitar, keyboards, bass and percussion.

The grooving vibe of the opening track, “Afonhe” exclaims, with a universal appeal, that you should open up, tell us about yourself, what you think, feel and want. By being true to oneself, everything is going to be fine. It’s a fine way for the charismatic Kimi Djabaté to pull us right into his music. Other songs on Dindin offer entrancing views about the complexity of life, joy, love, communication, connection, family, friends and activism. While highly personal and intimate in nature, the collective themes of Djabaté’s music will likely take his music to high levels on the world music charts. A few tasteful colorings of accordion, kora or saxophones flavor other standout tracks like “Yensoro,” “Kambem,” “Lano” and “Mbembalu.”  

Djabaté intricate, yet funky, blend has hints of traditional Afro-Portuguese rhythms, Afrobeat grooves and electric desert blues. Born in 1975, and now based in Lisbon, Djabaté has clearly accepted his role as a passionate West African troubadour destined to take his uplifting music, oral traditions and cultural knowledge to a far-reaching worldwide audience. As he builds his legion of fans, we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that Kimi Djabaté is also providing valuable insight concerning the socio-political situation in Africa in regards to religion, women’s rights, poverty and education. In an effort to inspire change, “O Manhe” addresses the tradition of forced marriage. The hopeful, optimistic plea of the title track declares, “Don’t exploit children. Help children become better human beings. Don’t exploit children. Educate them.” But, Djabaté seems especially moved when jubilantly singing a love song “Alidonke” accompanied by prominent electric guitar riffs and an alluring beat.

The Cumbancha record label obtained its name from Afro-Cuban slang for an impromptu gathering or party. Dedicated to presenting exceptional music from around the world, they recognize that good music knows no boundaries. We’re pleased that the label is releasing Kimi Djabate’s Dindin with its outstanding musicianship, unpretentious lyrics, social conscience and widespread appeal. (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)