Once a year or less we get a good concert from Ghana. Usually it is some form of Highlife. This time we have a bass player who will be leading a jazz group at the Baked Potato. He will have an international group backing him, so it won't be your run of the mill jazz.

http://www.afropulse.com/music/concerts/2006-08-w1.html

The golden voice of Mali returns in the form of this direct descendent of royalty. From his early fame with the Rail Band, Salif has built a reputation that spans the globe. Your only chance to see him outdoors and free will be down at the Santa Monica Pier this month. Opening for the show is LA's own Ashley Maher and her Global Band.

http://www.afropulse.com/music/concerts/2006-08-w2.html

This must be Mali month. Mamadou is also a griot descended from a similar royal line as Salif. His specialty is the kora. Yet another free concert, this time hosted by the Skirball.

http://www.afropulse.com/music/concerts/2006-08-w4.html

Hope you have been able to keep cool this summer. Try the two outdoor concerts mentioned here, because the evenings bring a refreshing breeze from the ocean.

jay