The Story Behind 'Xalam': youtu.be/4qIso5kC_MU
Released: May 28th 2021
Label: World Music Network // Riverboat Records


From The Press:

What stands out is how seamlessly Aylon has absorbed the essence of diﬀerent West African styles – from Mande griot music to Senegalese mbalax via desert blues – and distilled them into a unique and highly compelling montage” - Nigel Williamson, Songlines (5 Star Review)

"Ben Aylon returning the respect he has received back to the source" - Derek Rath, Afropop

"Thank you for doing the promotion of Senegal" - Youssou Ndour

Xalam

SMALL ROOM IN DAKAR

SeneGambia (Part 1)

Xalam (feat. Doudou Ndiaye Rose)

Hulem Belibe (feat. Aveva)

Alafia (feat. Khaira Arby)

SeneGambia (Part 2)

Benn Takamba

Café Touba

Mon Lov

Baraka

Tiriba (feat. Saboula Bangoura)

Fragile

"By The Lake" was born in a small room in Dakar, Senegal, just 100 meters from the ocean—a quiet sanctuary amidst the vibrant life outside. The music captures the essence of returning to one’s center, where solitude and inspiration coexist. For Ben Aylon, this room became a sacred space where experiences—both joyful and challenging—turned into melodies on the xalam, a traditional Senegalese string instrument. As an outsider, embracing Senegalese culture with respect and humility opened a path to honest creation, rooted in deep connection.

This is the first single from the album Small Room In Dakar (out August 15th, 2025), accompanied by Roei Hermon's piano in a gentle exploration through ambient textures.

By The Lake

Small Room In Dakar

Autumn Relief

Ali Be'er

Magic Hour

Horizon

Libérer

Joxna

Savanna Road

Quietness

Ben Aylon is a percussion virtuoso, xalam player, and producer known for his innovative approach to Senegalese drumming.

Over the past 15 years, under the mentorship of legendary drummers Doudou Ndiaye Rose and Aly Ndiaye Rose, Ben has developed a distinctive style that elevates traditional Senegalese drumming to new heights of musical expression.

His solo act, One Man Tribe, captures the essence of massive Senegalese drum ensembles, transforming it into a powerful ten-piece drum set solo performance, earning the respect of both Senegalese iconic musicians and audiences.

Along his journey, he discovered the xalam, a traditional Senegalese string instrument, with which he composes the soundtrack of his travels.

His ongoing documentary work in Senegal and beyond preserves rare footage of master drummers and traditional ceremonies in contemporary settings, building a comprehensive archive of the region’s musical heritage through his personal journey.

Ben’s mission focuses on uniting people from diverse cultures and religions through rhythm, prayer, and collaboration.

Ben Aylon

Pinned to spotlight

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