In the vibrant, diverse streets of Harlesden, northwest London, where cultures and sounds converge, a musical revolution is quietly unfolding. Balimaya Project, spearheaded by the talented Yahael Camara Onono, is redefining the boundaries of West African diaspora music with a compelling blend of tradition and innovation.
Yahael Camara Onono’s journey began far from the bustling music scenes of London. With a Nigerian mother and a Senegalese father, his life was steeped in the rich, rhythmic traditions of West Africa. It was in this cultural melting pot that Camara Onono first encountered Mandé drumming, a genre that would come to shape his musical identity.
Under the mentorship of renowned jembe master Sidiki Dembéle, Camara Onono honed a percussive style deeply rooted in Mandé traditions. His influences are as eclectic as they are profound, drawing from iconic West African artists like Nahawa Doumbia, Oumou Sangaré, Salif Keita, and Ali Farka Touré. But his sonic palette also extends beyond the borders of West Africa, incorporating the smooth grooves of Marvin Gaye, the soulful strains of Mahalia Jackson, the contemporary vibes of D’Angelo, and the rhythmic energy of Vybz Kartel. This fusion of influences, combined with London’s jazz, grime, and funky house sounds, has given rise to what many now call a “London ear” – a unique auditory experience that seamlessly integrates African and Caribbean rhythms.
In 2021, Balimaya Project burst onto the scene with their debut album, Wolo So. The album, praised for its dynamic polyrhythmic textures, drew comparisons to legendary ensembles like Fela Kuti’s Egypt 80 and Sun Ra’s Arkestra. Its critical success catapulted the band to international prominence, leading them to major festival stages, including Supersonic Jazz in Amsterdam and SXSW in Austin, Texas. One of the band’s most cherished moments came in early 2023 when they performed in Senegal, fulfilling a dream and connecting with their roots.
Their second album, When The Dust Settles, released in July 2023, marks a significant evolution in their sound and approach. This album delves into personal and emotional themes, exploring concepts of support, brotherhood, and kinship. Camara Onono’s experiences with loss, fatherhood, migration, and the search for truth resonate throughout the album, reflecting a more mature and introspective side of Balimaya Project. The band’s expanded lineup – now thirteen members strong – brought a new dimension to their music, embracing a collaborative writing and recording process that highlights each member’s unique style.
Balimaya Project’s continued success is a testament to their innovative spirit and dedication to preserving and evolving West African musical traditions. As they continue to captivate audiences around the world, their journey stands as a powerful reminder of the dynamic interplay between heritage and modernity, and the endless possibilities that arise when musical cultures intertwine.
