Djékady offers a blend of West African and American music, drawing danceable rhythms and energetic textures between each instrument. Balla Kouyaté and Mike Block met through their work with the Silkroad Ensemble and quickly connected over their love for cross-cultural collaboration. Kouyaté has a deep appreciation for the legacy and culture of his traditional music, but wants to make music without limitations or boundaries. He found a simpatico relationship with Block. “Balla’s joy and unbridled enthusiasm is infectious,” Block says, smiling. “There is so much trust between us,” offers Kouyaté. “We treat each other like brothers.” 

Every song is a trust fall, with each musician leaping higher and higher knowing their bandmates will catch them every time. “I’m learning to read the tea leaves of West African rhythms,” Block laughs, “but on stage, we stretch way beyond what happens in rehearsal. It’s always wild and revelatory.”

Djékady features three African and three American musicians. Mamoudou Konate (djembe) hails from Burkina Faso, a West African nation renowned for its vibrant drumming traditions and rich storytelling heritage. Idrissa Koné(talking drum, calabash, percussion, vocals) hails from the town of Mopti in Mali and is a member of the Bobo tribe. The Koné family’s role in their culture is to be like a friendly radio announcer — sharing news and announcements to everyone within walking distance. Luke Okerlund is guitarist and luthier from Worcester, MA with a longtime appreciation for West African music. Mike Rivard(bass, sintir) has spent time studying music in Morocco and brings the hypnotic quality of North African Gnawa music to the band. Dayana plans to release a new album in Fall 2025.