Where Continents Collide and the Dance Floor Ignites. Imagine a sonic explosion where the rhythms of Africa meet the fire of Gypsy soul, all fuelled by a healthy shot of classic hip hop grooves.

Afro Gitano is more than just a band; it’s the vibrant culmination of a lifelong Afrocentric musical exploration by Toni Kitanovski, a veteran guitarist, composer, and producer. A Berklee College of Music graduate with a distinguished background in jazz and world music, Kitanovski’s journey began with the acclaimed Gypsy brass group Cherkezi Orchestra. They released two albums for ENJA Records, captivating audiences from the legendary Porgy & Bess to the prestigious Berlin Jazz Festival and the iconic Barbican Hall. Their fiery, unforgettable performances led Rolling Stone magazine to proclaim that “these gentlemen are far above the line of Balkan brass bands.”

Kitanovski’s passion for African rhythms found a kindred spirit in Eric Malu, a phenomenal Congolese master rhythm guitarist from Kinshasa, known for his work with Jupiter and Okwess International, and praised by the likes of Damon Albarn, Robert (3D) Del Naja, and Warren Ellis. This collaboration wasn’t just a meeting of minds; it was the spark that ignited the Afro Gitano sound.

At its heart lies Baba Sissoko, the undisputed master of the tamani (talking drum) and a griot from an ancient Malian musical lineage. A world-renowned musician, he has performed with legends such as Ibrahim Ferrer (Buena Vista Social Club), Don Moye and the Art Ensemble of Chicago, Habib Koité, Rokia Traoré, Oumou Sangaré, Toumani Diabaté, Ballaké Sissoko, and many more—earning praise from Gilles Peterson and being recognised as Best African Jazz Musician at the “African Grammies,” The Obaland Music Awards in 2018. Sissoko brings the authentic sounds of Mali, igniting spirits with his mesmerising rhythms and soulful voice.

Adding his signature beats and turntable wizardry is DJ Goce, an international DJ and producer with deep roots in the hip hop scene. Having toured with Gang Starr Foundation and shared the stage with icons such as Mobb Deep, Ghostface Killah, Diamond D, DJ Format, Das EFX, and DJ Maceo (De La Soul), DJ Goce infuses Afro Gitano’s sound with a unique blend of hip hop energy, rare grooves, and a deep appreciation for soul, funk, and jazz.

Afro Gitano is a cultural force. Their music has graced film scores and inspired contemporary dance, most recently with The Way of Clave, commissioned by the Dallas Black Dance Theater. PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES!