Malian-born and Oslo-based percussionist Sidiki Camara is preparing to release ‘Ankaben’, his most ambitious project to date. The album brings together an ensemble of Norwegian jazz, folk and contemporary musicians for a project rooted in cross-cultural collaboration.
The title ‘Ankaben’ translates to “Humanity” and reflects Camara’s deeply held belief in the power of music to connect people across cultures, genres and borders. Following his 2023 Norwegian Grammy (Spellemannprisen) win for ‘Return to the Traditions’, the album continues his lifelong exploration of Malian musical traditions through collaboration and improvisation.
Camara started playing music in Mali at just 10 or 11 years old, eventually choosing music over formal education to pursue a professional career. His path has taken him from Bamako to Brussels, where he resided from 1989 to 2006, and then to Oslo, where he has been based since 2006. ‘Ankaben’ stands as the latest chapter in a career defined by musical exploration and cultural connection. 
