Ananda Vaughan is a guitarist and multi-instrumentalist whose musical journey spans over three decades. While deeply rooted in jazz, his explorations have led him to incorporate diverse world and American styles into his playing, resulting in a versatile and original sound. When not touring with his original projects BrightSide Blue and Ananda Vaughan Music, he works as a guitar teacher, songwriter, and session player in Northern California. Inspired by artists such as Paul Simon, Dave Matthews, Ali Farka Touré, and Pat Metheny, Vaughan blends uplifting melodies with innovative guitar and mandolin techniques.

“The Gathering” is an entrancing instrumental piece featuring Salif Bama Kora’s lilting kora (a 21-string West African harp) and Vaughan’s guitar/mandolin work, accompanied by upright bass and gentle percussion.  Salif Bama Kora has studied extensively with Malian virtuoso Madou Sidiki Diabaté, and tours and performs with the global fusion artist Simrit.