On most nights of the week you can spot charismatic Guinean musician Falle Nioke writing or performing on the harbor in the English seaside town of Margate. Engaging with the community has always been at the heart of his work, having learnt to sing in Susu, Fulani, Koniag, Bambara, Malinke, English and French—languages that unite the coasts of West Africa to Western Europe.

Margate-based director Tom Dream collaborated closely with artists from the coastal area to create a series of live portraits of artists, including Nioke, who had just moved to the region. New Foundation captures the Guinea expat at a “particularly exciting moment in his life,” says the director. “Filmed soon after the birth of his son, the center of his creativity now has a new foundation in family and community.” 

Nioke’s music is the thread that weaves through this visual tapestry about his new world; showcasing the warmth of his hometown in Conakry, spotlighting his south London performance with Jungle musician Congo Natty, and celebrating his family life in England.

“The filming process gave Falle an opportunity to reflect on his journey so far, while looking towards a new future in the UK,” says Dream. “I hope the project works both as an introduction to an emerging artist, and also a positive immigration story.”

Listen to Falle Nioke's new single, Salia, here