The music of Toubab Krewe wasborn without a flag or fixed allegiance – free, questing, and overflowing with immediate, tangible life that creates a sonic Pangaea. Formed in 2005, the group has tenaciously honed their craft and carved a unique sound that builds upon echoes of African greats like Ali Farka Toure, Orchestra Baobab and Salif Keita, no doubt picked up during the group’s travels to study and live in Guinea, Ivory Coast and Mali. The fruits of this hard work and dedication can be heard on their latest release, TK2, (September 7, 2010 on Nat Geo Music). What Justin Perkins (Kora, Kamelngoni,guitar,percussion), Terrence Houston (drums), Drew Heller (guitar, piano, fiddle), David Pransky (bass, guitar), andLuke Quaranta (Djembe, Congas, percussion) have wrought on TK2 reflects the many miles and musical journeys that have transpired since their 2007 self-titled studio debut.
This is a band that actively draws inspiration from whatever source floats into their purview, something they’ve exhibited in their half decade of heavy gigging, including regular appearances at major U.S. festivals like Bonnaroo, High Sierra, Rothbury and Wakarusa, and abroad at such legendary gatherings as Festival In The Desert in Mali. Whether on their own or collaborating with luminaries like the Last Poets’ Umar Bin Hassan or Uncle Earl’s Rayna Gellert, Toubab Krewe has already earned the attention and respect of a broad musical community. (More info)