The diversity of traditional African expression allows limitless interpretations, said Diallo Sumbry, managing director for Farafina Kan.  "It's about using a high level of energy and artistry, and taking the traditional — which we've studied and maintained the integrity of — and mixing it with hip-hop, reggae and other types of music," he said.  Sumbry, who also performs with Farafina Kan's dance and drumming ensemble, is the second generation of African-Americans reconnecting to his West African heritage through the arts. His parents followed the turmoil and promise of the '60s civil rights movement by rediscovering their cultural roots.  For him, it's simply something he and his friends grew up with.  "As we began to get older, we wanted to put a new spin to the music for the generation coming up, and that led to my brothers forming Farafina Kan" in 2004.  The company, which translates to "sound of Africa," has performed at past DanceAfrica events, but this is its first foray into the Mountain West. It mirrors the progression of DanceAfrica in general, which has taken place in cities such as Washington, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Columbus, Chicago and Dallas in the past.