KENYA

The obokano, lyre of the Gusii

Recordings (2012) and notes : Stéphanie Weisser

The deep, buzzing sounds of the large eight-stringed lyre known as the obokano are at the heart of the culture of the Gusii people from Kenya. The instrument belongs to the male sphere, so it associated with strength and power. Today the obokano is used to perform the traditional repertoire as well as more ‘modern’ pieces. Whether they are played in an urban or a rural context, by young or more experienced musicians, these obokano pieces give off extraordinary energy and trigger a wave of enthusiasm in musicians and listeners alike.

CD AIMP CVII / VDE-1414, 2014