Formed in 2004 by four percussionists, Sankorfa have steadily gained a reputation as one of London’s most exciting and accomplished instrumental groups.
As you might expect from a band who have played everywhere from the Royal Opera House to the Camden Jazz Café, their music draws on numerous influences – from the frosty minimalism of Steve Reich to the salsa-infused rhythms of Chano Pozo.
These sounds are captured perfectly on their EP In Between Instruments, which comprises five original tracks by the Guildhall grads, but it’s live that the group really shine. A mass of flailing limbs, syncopated beats and majestic marimba, their breathtaking live show has been wowing crowds in recital halls and nightclubs alike.
The name Sankorfa is derived from an African word meaning “looking back to go forward”, which perfectly describes the band’s approach: studying the past masters to create a sound that’s all their own.
