A new group from Sweden and Burkina Faso introduces itself:

From the depths of the Nordic forests to the red earth of the Sahel—a unique musical journey between Sweden and Burkina Faso.

Siri Karlsson and Solo Dja Kabaco join forces in a powerful musical collaboration where Nordic folk melodies meet the rhythms of the Sahel. Their first album, Stockholm – Ouagadougou (Tombola Records, 2025) is nominated for a Swedish grammy “Grammis” 2026. Siri Karlsson’s evocative and psychedelic expression blends with Solo Dja Kabaco’s direct, narrative vocal style. The result is a vibrant tapestry of Nordic sounds, Sahelian rhythms, and a primal energy felt in every note.

              “The album Stockholm – Ouagadougou is a striking testament to music’s power to erase borders and create a sense of belonging—something we need more than ever today.”

The collboration started in 2016 when Siri Karlsson played at the jazz festival Jazz à Ouaga. Over the years, their musical friendship has grown and transcended continents and cultures. The album was recorded partly in Ouagadougou, partly in Stockholm. The group has toured Sweden twice. 
 
Solo Dja Kabaco is one of Burkina Faso’s most famous and beloved artists. Despite having been visually impaired since childhood, he has developed a unique guitar style and narrative voice. He has recorded several albums and won several awards in his country and in he region. Solo Dja Kabaco grew up in western Burkina Faso, which shares its musical tradition with Mali. He has collaborated with Malian stars such as Ali Farka Touré and Amadou & Mariam.

Siri Karlsson have released seven albums and have been acclaimed and honored with awards for their avant-garde folk music.

Members in the group: 
Solo Dja Kabaco - vocals, guitar
Cecilia Österholm - key fiddle, vocals 
Maria Arnqvist - saxophone, vocals, synths
Simon Svärd - guitars, lapsteel
Sylvain Dando Paré - bass
Seydou “Barbu” Koné