Afla Sackey & Afrik Bawantu

Sizzling hot Afrobeat, Highlife & Afro-funk from legendary Ghanaian percussionist, vocalist and all round top guy Afla Sackey. Afla commands the stage with a super charismatic presence, and his London based ensemble Afrik Bawantu mean serious business when it comes to irresistible dancing grooves. Expect driving rhythms and snappy arrangements delivered with contemporary flair, for a beat that won't let you stay still.

Saturday 23rd January
Afla Sackey & Afrik Bawantu
+ more
Doors Open 8pm
The Jam Jar, Bristol

Afla Sackey & Afrik Bawantu are a dynamic Ghanaian-led ensemble bringing the depth of West African rhythm into a powerful, contemporary live-band experience. Fronted by Ghanaian vocalist, percussionist, composer and dancer Afla Sackey, the group unites traditional Ghanaian musical influences with Afrobeat, highlife, Afro-funk and jazz to create music that is both culturally grounded and unmistakably built for the stage.

At the heart of Afrik Bawantu’s sound is Sackey’s commanding percussion and expressive vocal presence. Around him, driving bass lines, intricate polyrhythms, expansive guitar work and animated horn arrangements create a rich, physical sound that moves effortlessly from deep groove to full-throttle celebration. The band’s music carries the spirit of Ghana while embracing the energy, diversity and creative freedom of London’s international music scene.

Afla Sackey’s artistic journey began in Ghana with the Bukom Ensemble, where he developed an early foundation in dance, rhythm and traditional performance. After moving to the United Kingdom, he earned a Master’s degree in Music Leadership from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and established himself as a respected performer, educator and collaborator. His work has taken him across musical worlds, including collaborations and performances connected with artists such as Tony Allen, Ginger Baker, the Sun Ra Arkestra, Seun Kuti, Sons of Kemet, Dele Sosimi and Ibibio Sound Machine.

Afrik Bawantu’s live shows are designed to create connection. The band’s performances are energetic, inclusive and deeply rhythmic, inviting audiences out of their seats and into the music. Whether appearing at a major festival, concert hall, jazz club, cultural celebration or outdoor event, the group delivers a polished and engaging show with the scale, musicianship and stage presence to command a room.

Their 2024 album, *Destination*, released through Wah Wah 45s, captures the band’s distinctive identity: vibrant Ghanaian rhythms, sophisticated arrangements, powerful brass, infectious Afrobeat grooves and messages of unity, resilience and collective joy. Written, arranged and produced by Afla Sackey, the album reflects the group’s belief that music can be both deeply entertaining and socially meaningful.

For promoters, managers and festival organisers, Afla Sackey & Afrik Bawantu offer more than a performance. They offer a complete live experience: internationally informed, culturally authentic, musically ambitious and immediately accessible to audiences. This is a band capable of transforming a festival stage into a communal celebration and leaving a lasting impression long after the final rhythm has sounded.