For over three decades, legendary musician Afel Bocoum stood alongside Mali's late great desert blues pioneer Ali Farka Touré as a guardian of Mali's Niger River musical soul.

After Touré's mentorship, Bocoum launched a solo career with his 1999 debut 'Alkibar' (The Messenger), earning international recognition and forging a creative partnership with Damon Albarn, with whom he collaborated on Mali Music 2002 and later projects.

Now, as one of the Sahel's most beloved artists and a de facto Malian ambassador for endangered instruments like the njurkel lute and njarka fiddle, he prepares a new album, 'Harber', and comes to The Apex as part of rare UK tour.

Bocoum's new trio strips music to its core - voice, rhythm, and the spaces between.

Ali Bounaly Traoré, a Songhoy guitarist from Bocoum's hometown of Niafunké and his apprentice since childhood, brings fresh energy and deep-rooted knowledge to his solo guitar. Mahalmadane Bountel Traoré, a seasoned Songhoy musician who was essential to Khaira Arby's group, The Nightingale of Timbuktu, anchors the rhythm with calabash and percussion. Their voices weave stirring harmonies, their shared Songhoy heritage creating a sound greater than its parts.

Afel Bocoum remains a bridge between worlds. He carries Mali's Niger River sound forward as a living force shaping tomorrow.

The river remembers. In Bocoum's hands, it also dreams.

A Mwldan / i4Africa Co-production

THE APEX, BURY ST EDMUNDS

Tickets: £22