The Tongo Afro Roots Duo was formed in 2004 when the Sierra Leonean drummer and British guitarist were playing together as part of dance band, Le Cod Afrique, at venues such as Montreux Jazz Festival and WOMAD.

This Afro Roots Duo duo immediately became a hit on the UK festival circuit with their brand of bouncy “Sunshine Afro-roots”. Shows have included Glastonbury, Secret Garden Party, Beat-herder and Green Man Festivals to name but a few.

Using guitar, live loops and percussion the duo creates a highly danceable full band sound and their reputation has earned them recent support slots with the likes of Tinariwen, The Oyster Band and Dub Colossus. Their music is often featured on BBC Radio 3 and 6Music.

Shows feature palm-wine, acoustic dub and highlife grooves with thoughtful and thought-provoking lyrics on subjects ranging from childhood memories, political protest and er….duvets. 

"Brilliant – if you want a bit of early summer, then get this into your ear-holes!" Lauren Laverne, BBC 6Music

"Full of such bright tuneful moments, this really takes off in an intimate live setting." fRoots Magazine

"They would play something like this on his programme and the world would suddenly seem a better place." Steve Lamacq, BBC 6Music

• Other World Music in Gloucestershire
• African Entertainment in Gloucestershire