TRIO 368°

CHEICK TIDIANE SECK - Multi-instrumentalist composer of precious arrangements, was born in Mali but later moved to the Ivory Coast (strategic zone of the African music crossroads). He became a member of the Super Rail Band, a renowned orchestra that featured artists like Mory Kante and Salif Keita, with whom Cheick would collaborate in the future.
He traveled the world and shared the stage with Jimmy Cliff, Wayne Shorter, Santana, Joe Zawinul, Manu Dibango, and Toumani Diabate, among others. Notably, he played a significant role in assembling the musicians who created the magnificent African jazz album "Red Earth" by Dee Dee Bridgewater.

From Ivory Coast, we have PACO SERY - a top-tier drummer whose passion led him to build his first wooden drum set at the age of 9. Since then, he has participated in projects, crossed paths with important Jazz names and after a season with Nina Simone, it was time for a partnership with giants: Jaco Pastorius and Joe Zawinul. His music is a pure mix. Seri's drumsticks make us sway to the sound of the afrobeat, vibrate with the funk and jazz influences, all rooted in his solid musical foundation.

From Cameroon - GUY NSANGUE AKWA, a bassist known for his intense groove and remarkable ability to use "slap" techniques. He effortlessly explores various African sounds, such as Mandinga and Congolese music, Soukous, and Zouk, seamlessly blending them with elements of jazz, funk, and pop. He cites as his primary musical influences James Brown and the music of Kool & the Gang, where the importance of Muhammad Bayyan's bass is essential.

To list all the names with whom he has performed would be to compile a roster of the Trio's esteemed colleagues: Dibango, Kassav, Papa Wemba, Alpha Blondy, Salif Keita, and numerous others from around the world, including the Zawinul Syndicate and Jacob Desvarieux, among many more. Notably, his collaboration with Ponty resulted in the exceptional album "Tchokola".

The fusion and unity of these three foundational figures in African music give birth to a distinct and rich sound, where African organic elements shine through a harmonious blend of knowledge and musical techniques from Afro-jazz, embodied by each member. Their music is deeply rooted in tradition yet contemporary, with constant rhythmical variations, creating a sound that is both authentic and excellent, with a unique personality. The trio's synergy transforms Mali, Ivory Coast, and Cameroon into a unified sound known as Trio 368 Degrees. It showcases the excellence of African music in Cabo Verde.