THE MALI-CUBA CONNECTION / AFRICA MIA

In the midst of the Cold War, ten young promising musicians from Mali are sent to Cuba to study music and strengthen cultural links between the two socialist countries. Combining Malian and Afro-Cuban influences, they develop a revolutionary new sound and become the iconic ensemble ‘Las Maravillas de Mali’. New Year’s Eve 2000. Richard Minier, a French music producer meets a former member of the band in Bamako and decides to bring the band back together.

““The group became the emblem of Afro-Cuban relations,” said the film narrator. But the impact they had left an impression of the Cuban musicians they met.” ~ Gina Harris, ADIFF NYC 2021 Blog