(crammed discs, kinshasa)

with their ability to unleash pure magic and sheer ecstasy onstage, KINSHASA's originators of the CONGOTRONICS movement never fail to astonish if seen in concert. their crazy polyrhythms and heavily distorted afro-noise have stimulated and inspired techno producers as well as indie rock kids (read more on a recent remix project featuring the hippest rockers and most happening electronic musicians here). even HOLLAND's seasoned punks of THE EX hardly play any show without paying tribute to the congolese crew by performing what they call "THEME FROM KONONO".

KONONO NO. 1's line-up includes three heavily amplified electric LIKEMBÉS, equipped with hand-made microphones built from magnets salvaged from old car parts, and plugged into amplifiers. the group travels with a rhythm section that uses traditional as well as makeshift percussion (pans, pots and car parts) and a sound system featuring these famous megaphones.

the first known recordings of the band from 1978, released on a double cassette called MUSIQUES URBAINES A KINSHASA, are a special treat; download them here and do not forget to check the ORCHESTRE T.P. LIKEMBE KONOKO (sic!) on the epic and breathless 30 minute-long track 4!