I had the chance to see Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-Stars in Prospect Park on Saturday. Inspired by the documentary on their forming in a refugee camp during a civil war in their home nation, their live set proved as danceable and intimate as portrayed on film. The song I filmed featured fellow countrymen, the hip-hoppers Pupa Bajah & Baw-Waw Society. My good friends at Modiba produced and released a free download for them (united they are known as Dry-Yai) in the wake of elections in Sierra Leone. The bass-heavy, excellent song is called “Ease Di Tension,” and you can download it free here. Lastly from the Modiba camp is this short set by Vieux Farka Toure at Joe’s Pub in the spring. His father’s legacy comes alive in every gorgeous moment. – DB
Words on Words