First formed in the mining town of Beyla in the early ‘60s, Bembeya Jazz quickly established itself as one of Guinea's leading dance orchestras, winning first prize at the 1964 and 1965 national arts festivals. In 1966, they were awarded the title “Bembeya Jazz National," and went on to make some of the finest records released on the Guinean government's Syliphone label. The band updates Mandinka folk with hypnotic guitars (highlighted by the crystalline lead work of Sekou Diabaté), throbbing rhythms, majestic horns, and accomplished vocals for a sound heavy on both atmosphere and groove.