Kongo

Since 1991 this group from Brazzaville in the Republic of Congo has been developing its folkloric drum and dance act into a modern fusion that also incorporates singing and electric instrumentation. This is a fine blend of Central African drumming mixed with a lively version of the soukous sound. Leader Emile Biayenda composed most of the songs, and the subject matter reflects the roots and traditions of a developing Congo: nostalgia, deforestation and, on ‘Naléla Na Tina’, a tribute to the father-figures of music from Congo-Brazzaville.

Principal vocalist Soly Matsimba has a fine voice and the group's choral and percussive responses are lively and fun. On one track he is joined by an impressive female guest vocalist, Monie Kongo. They have an articulate guitarist, Amen Viana, whose versatility shows as he switches between delicate acoustic playing and fluid Santana-esque rock. Incessant ngoma (hand drumming) throughout this disc mirrors the ever-present tumbling waters of the Congo River – the inspiration for this powerful and dynamic group.