The Madalitso Band, an acclaimed and well-traveled dance folk music duo from Malawi, will take the stage at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4, at Vashon Center for the Arts.

With the instrumentation of a homemade one-string slide bass (babatone), a cow-skin foot drum, and a four-string guitar, the band delivers joyous harmonies.

Recent years have been an extraordinary ride for duo members Yobu Malingwa and Yosef Kalekeni, who for many years roamed the streets of their hometown, Lilongwe, until they were discovered by a local producer.

Since their first performance on an international stage at Sauti Za Busara in Zanzibar, in 2017, they have released two albums, been on five European tours, and just this year, embarked on their first national tour of Malawi.

Critics have raved.

“Forget The White Stripes and their Seven Nation Army, and lock into the two-man musical army that is the Madalitso Band from Malawi; you will not be disappointed,” said Folk Radio UK.

“When in motion, Madaliso Band are a bundle of spirited energy, tight-meshed rhythms, harmonies that glide in close formation and streetwise songs of wit and wisdom,” said John Parry, in “Backstreet Mafia.”

As part of VCA’s commitment to bring culturally enriching programming to island youth year-round, the Madalitso Band’s evening concert will be free for youth.

In addition to the 7 p.m. performance, VCA and the Vashon Island School District are partnering to bring the band to students earlier in the day, during a school assembly, when they will share their music and instruments with students.

Find out more and purchase tickets at vashoncenterforthearts.org.