Orchestra Gold grew out of a collaboration between Mariam Diakite and Erich Huffaker, although the previous’s Malian upbringing and dynamic onstage power weigh heaviest within the equation. It’s Diakite’s distinct West African mindset and vocal supply that coax the ensemble’s extra standard rock and soul attributes into otherworldly realms. For lack of a greater time period, the band describes its expansive sound as “Afro psych rock.” However its deep, pulsing grooves maintain their share of different surprises.
Dakan, the group’s new self-released LP, was impressed by Diakite’s devotion to the Baye Fall custom, a mystical department of West African Islam that favors laborious work and a direct communion with the divine. The title of Orchestra Gold’s newest single, “Diyanye Ko Te Sa,” interprets to “pleasure shouldn’t be useless” in English.
“In a tradition that floods us with decisions and rewards our base impulses, this track is a sacred pause,” says Diakite. “It’s a second to ask, ‘Is that this want coming from my increased self. Or is it simply one other whisper from my outdated programming?’ Some wishes are insatiable. Some wishes by no means go away. Don’t go chasing each little pleasure.”
We’re proud to premiere Orchestra Gold’s “Diyanye Ko Te Sa.” Search for Dakan Oct. 2.
—Hobart Rowland
