There is a place in Africa where the hot sands of the continent meet the sea. When travelers reach this shore from the mainland they would throw down their hearts in the face of a beauty they had never seen. This is the meaning of Bela Fleck's new independent film "Throw Down Your Heart". Not Your Average Folk was lucky enough to have a place in the sold out Coolidge Corner Theater last Thursday night to preview the film alongside Bela himself. 

The film is a documentary style film following Bela's travels throughout the continent of Africa, stopping at bright spots on the musical map. You will experience how the Banjo has grown from it's predecessors, the Kora (a 21 Stringed Harp-like instrument made with a Gord) and the Akonting (A three string instrument that is incredibly banjo-like). The journey takes Bela and his brother, the producer of the movie, through several african styles ranging from a giant hand-built, inground, 10+ foot long xylaphone-like instriment to a new twist on the traditional acoustic guitar.

 Bela was on hand after the screening for questions and a short solo performance. Bela was both gracious and surprised that the 300+ seat theater was filled to capacity. The crowd was full of questions and he was full of wit, insight, and charm. His performance was as intriguing as the film. He even stayed around until the last fan lefts to sign autographs and talk to fans personally. 

 This was an event that was not to be missed. You can visit www.throwdownyourheart.com to find dates near you, purchase the recordings that appear in the film, and learn more about this project.

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