Listening to Congolese Music: Konono No. 1


Mbote!

I’ve been on a huge African music kick and I wanted to check out the music in the big DRC. That’s the Democratic Republic of Congo for those not familiar with that initialism. I discovered this band called Konono No. 1 who are from Kinshasa (No, it’s not just Shinsuke Nakamura’s finishing move) which is the capital and largest city. These musicians don;t sound like anyone else. It consists of singers, drummers, and three thumb piano players that are hooked up to DIY amps. The frequencies almost sound like distorted guitars which is crazy with how full their sound is. They incorporate traditional rhythms with avant-garde electronics.

Feel free to check them out!