WORLD music promoters, Span Arts are hosting an African band at the Queen's Hall Narberth, next Friday, June 18.
Jelitara Futa bring a fabulous funky mix of Cuban Mambo, Reggae and Fula beats, live and direct from Senegal, with a new album 'Mami' out now.
Following the overwhelming success of the 2003 tour, this exciting six-piece band make their return visit to the UK this summer. The band are currently performing seven nights a week, dividing their time between The Gambia and the music capital of Senegal, Dakar.
'Jelitara Futa' means 'It's time to wake up'‚ and in literal terms this means get up and dance! As temperature-raisers they are wonderful, with a vibrant fusion of the traditional and the modern combining reggae beats with the sounds of Senegal, Cuba and beyond.
They are fronted by their irrepressible lead singer Laye Sowe, who is first cousin to the legendary Baba Maal, with a pure vocal style of true feeling and emotion to rival the great master. For three years Laye was lead singer with the National Band of Senegal, before working with Baba Maal and going on to form Jelitara Futa. Together they play keyboards, rhythm guitar, bass, drums, djembe, African drums and lead guitar.
Already firmly established on their home turf, Jelitara Futa will be setting the Queen's Hall stage alight with their raw and joyful music.
Support at the Queens Hall will be from world music DJ Earthdoctor, so that a night of dancing is assured.
Tickets and further information can be obtained from Span on (01834) 869323, or by visiting the website span-arts.org.uk