Toumani Diabate and his Symmetric Orchestra

I've never been to Bamako, but this would be such a great place to see the master and his band!

If you missed it back when it came out, I highly recommend the album Boulevard de L'Independence. Toumani is amazing on the kora, and his band lives up to his high musical standards. Very satisfying release. I missed the chance to see them live in Seattle a few years ago, I've regretted it ever since.