For the third consecutive year, NPR's cherished Tiny Desk concert series has joined forces with globalFEST to present an invigorating online festival that celebrates the richness of global music. This edition is hosted by the dynamic Angélique Kidjo and showcases nine diverse artists from around the world, each contributing their unique musical identities. Starting on January 24 at 8 p.m. ET, the festival unfolds over three nights, featuring three bands each night and inviting audiences into a cultural whirlpool filled with diverse rhythms and melodies.
Taraf de Caliu: Romania’s Gem
Kicking off the festival is the Romanian ensemble Taraf de Caliu, reconnecting with audiences after more than three decades in the music industry. Known for their authentic Romanian tunes, this group of "lutari" (traditional musicians) from Clejani is led by maestro violinist Gheorghe Anghel, affectionately dubbed 'Caliu.' Their electrifying performance honors their cultural roots with tracks like "Ca la Breaza" and "Dragostea de la Clejani." The vivid on-stage energy and the rhythmic blend of violin, accordion, and cimbalom create an atmosphere reminiscent of a lively Romanian wedding, capturing the festive essence of their performances.
Noura Mint Seymali: The Griot’s Voice
Emerging from the deserts of Mauritania, Noura Mint Seymali presents a compelling force in contemporary music. Inspired by the deep legacies of the Moorish griot, her band's sound bridges traditional instruments with electrified guitar riffs, forming an entrancing soundscape. During her Tiny Desk set, Seymali showcases mesmerizing vocals intertwined with vibrant rhythms in tracks like "Na Ha" and "Tasirit." Her music serves as a cultural panorama, rich with lively percussion and enchanting melodies, which transport listeners straight into the vast terrains of Mauritania while honoring its profound musical heritage.
Justin Adams & Mauro Durante: The Crossroad of Cultures
The collaboration of Justin Adams and Mauro Durante contributes a unique flavor to the festival. Their joint efforts, which have previously resulted in an award-winning album, combine post-punk influences with Middle Eastern elements. Adams, noted for his work with Tinariwen and Robert Plant, partners seamlessly with Durante, the leader of the southern Italian group Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino. The duo’s acoustic performance, highlighted by tracks like "Cupa Cupa" and "Dark Road Down," illustrates the seamless blending of varied musical styles, reinforcing the idea of cultural unity through music.
A Global Celebration
The partnership between Tiny Desk and globalFEST exemplifies a commitment to celebrating global music while offering a platform for rich cultural narratives that often go unheard in mainstream media. Directed creatively by Bob Boilen, the Tiny Desk team has curated yet another inspiring event. As the festival continues, each performance not only spotlights the vast diversity of global music but also signifies the resilience of artistic expression during challenging times. From the vibrant performances by Taraf de Caliu to the spellbinding sounds of Noura Mint Seymali and the innovative work by Adams and Durante, each act reiterates music as a universal language that transcends geographical boundaries. Don’t miss this celebration of global culture at Tiny Desk.