Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

Out of Africa

In shimmering robes and a bejeweled headdress, Khaira Arby looks every bit the African diva that she is. Her songs evoke Mali’s history through tales of ancient warriors, colonial struggles and contemporary salt-mine workers. The references may go in one ear and out the other — Arby shows off her vocal chops in several languages, but English isn’t one of them — but the gripping fusion of traditional African, rock, electric blues and reggae needs no translation. Known for her electrifying showmanship, this “Nightingale of the North” champions peace at Burlington City Arts on Sunday.