PENCHMI XAWARE SERIES : AFRICAN DRUM + DANCE + CHANT PORTAL AT COLET HOUSE

WHO IS DEMBIS THIOUNG?

Dembis is a mesmerizing master of the dunduns—the melodic and hypnotic bass drums that constitute the heartbeat, melody, and soul of traditional West African ensemble djembe music.

A Bayefall at heart and Griot by blood, Dembis was born and raised in Dakar, West Africa he is now based in London, UK. Introduced to traditional and contemporary Senegalese music at a young age, he learned the art of drumming and dance.

Recognized as a skilled percussionist specializing in Dundun, Djembe, Sabar, and Asico drums, Dembis proudly identifies with his Senegalese legacy, carrying forward the teachings of his elders and ancestry.

DEMBIS is the Gatekeeper of THE PENCHMI portals and the visionary and initiator of the BENE TALLY BAND project.

BENE TALLY is the name of Dembis Thioung's neighborhood in the heart of Dakar, Senegal, literally translated as "ONE WAY" or "one road."

BENE TALLY band & friends, a self-funded project initiated in October 2019, is a collective of artists bringing the magical rhythms, heartbeat, and spirit of Africa to the UK. It has performed in venues like Hootenanny, Peckham Levels, The Tabernacle, The Post Bar, Folklore and Kindred Studios

Rooted in the dundun drum and West African traditions, the band blends Dembis' Griot and Bayefall heritage, fostering creative collaborations between dedicated and regular P ENCHMI Dundunfolas attendees and master African artists.

Every performance is unique and magical.

This transformative journey also invites the audience to participate, connecting individuals and communities through rhythms and movement, offering the healing benefits of West African ancestral wisdom.