Portrait of the week – Sierra Leone Refugee Allstars

The Sierra Leone Refugee Allstars – a more charming bunch you’d be hard pressed to find. Sadly they’re not playing a UK gig this time, just passing through on their way to a tour of Germany.

I met them at the British Red Cross HQ in Moorgate last Tuesday. Along with some UK musicians, they’re working with the organisation to record a concept album about the stories of refugees and asylum seekers.

Moorgate is not the most photogenic part of London, especially with all the Crossrail work at the moment. Luckily, I had time for a quick recce of the area before our meeting and found this spot on a side road heading up to the Barbican. The guys responded brilliantly to the quirky location, and by marvellous coincidence the signage coordinated perfectly with colours of their clothes.