The Haitian band Lakou Mizik formed in the wake of the earthquake that struck its country in 2010. Nine musicians, ranging in age from early 20s to late 60s, united to convey a message of strength to their fellow Haitians and to carry that message worldwide. The band's rhythm section plays traditional drums alongside snare drums and cymbals. That's supplemented with the giant rara horns that are part of the island's annual Carnival processions — plus four singers, including Steeve Valcourt.
In today's session, World Cafe speaks with Valcourt about the group's new album, Wa Di Yo. Lakou Mizik is worth seeing as well as hearing, so check out the in-studio performance video below.
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