Five Notes

Singer and instrumentalist Seby Ntege is based in London, and fronts a multicultural band. He's from East Uganda and specialises in the folk music based on the five-note pentatonic scale of the akogo (thumb piano). However, his electric band present a thoroughly modern update on the Ugandan tradition that roots Semy Ntege's compositions.

A fine guitarist, he adds Congolese- style licks to a good rhythm section and adorning the songs are kora, 12-string adungu (harp) and the thumb piano – all also handled by Ntege himself. While his instrumental capabilities are unquestionable, some of the vocal performances are stretched and over dramatic – particularly the vibrato – and the banal lyrics are a slightly disappointing distraction on this release. However, with a forthcoming tour, and also a booking to appear at WOMAD, it will be interesting to see how well the music of Ntege and his band transfers to a live stage.