KEXP 90.3 FM - where the music matters

The new African "buzz" band of 2005, with the release of their album "Congotronics", discovered by Belgian producer Vincent Kenis in Kinshasa, Congo. Their 72-year old leader Mingiedi has actually led this group for over 30 years. It's an improbable mix of traditional "likembe"- traditional thumb piano from rural Congo, but then amplified using homemade pick-ups and electronics, along with makeshift percussion instruments. Konono No. 1 made their first US appearance in Seattle in early November, 2005- and this was their very first performance for American radio, live on KEXP. - J. Kertzer