Fongola

Congolese music has a long history of experimentalism and punk attitude (just think of Konono Nº1, who were formed all the way back in 1966), and KOKOKO!  carry on this tradition with their DIY instruments, frenetic rhythms, and politically charged lyrics. While the rhythmic element remains the backbone of KOKOKO!’s music, on Fongola the group adds a bed of synths that at times take the lead, creating sweet melodies that offset the hard, sped-up soukous rhythms and yelped vocal interjections. The collective marries all these different elements perfectly, creating an ecstatic, joyful record.