News!
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Ian is back on the road with 2-time GRAMMY Award Winner Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Exxperience in February 2026. Check the “Calendar” page for more details on where to catch him!
About
Drummer, Percussionist, and Composer Ian Molinaro-Thompson transcends genres and weaves a tapestry of influences from West Africa and the Black American traditions
Ian released his debut album as a solo artist in 2024. The Bonds That Make Us is a love letter to how music connects us. Alongside Dagara musician Jerome Balsab and an all star cast of New Orleans musicians, The Bonds That Make Us is a fast paced, hard hitting album that combines traditional Ghanaian music with the sounds of New Orleans and Post Bop.
Ian’s blend of traditional Ghanaian music with influences from the Black American traditions gives him a unique approach and voice on his instruments. Proficient not only in Drum Set, Ian regularly plays and performs with a Dagomba instrument called a Gungon, a Dagara marimba called Gyil, and a Ga drum called Kpanlogo. Fusing these styles with contemporary influences breathes life into his music and gives him a one-of-a-kind voice.