Diom De Kossa, who originally hails from the Ivory Coast, masters the entire spectrum of percussion ranging from the old West African acoustic traditions to contemporary styles.

Kossa’s father was a famous traditional dancer, and he played a pivotal role in Kossa’s childhood which was steeped in music and dance. In 1975 he began his artistic career in the National Ballet of the Ivory Coast, where he spent 10 years playing with other master-drummers, musicians and dancers. When Kossa plays the traditional percussion instrument Yadoh – which is made up of five small drums tied around a large one – he puts on display incredible speed, control and technique that is both ear as well as eye-catching.

Kossa has enjoyed a long and fruitful companionship with the Norwegian Concert Institute, and has been particularly popular with his celebrated performances and workshops for children. Since 1987 he has played more than 1000 concerts all over Norway. In 2008, Kossa received a commission for a work to be premiered at the Telemark Festival. August this year sees the release of the album ‘Baba Toulenga’.

Diom De Kossa | percussion, vocals
Kenneth Ekornes | percussion, vocals
Khalid Salih | bass, vocals
Olav Torget | guitar, vocals
Kouadio Briscard | guitar
 

SOUNDCHECK // www.myspace.com/diomdekossa