Mbongwana Star - From Kinshasa

Mbongwana Star
From Kinshasa
2015
Mbongwana Star - From Kinshasa

Listening to a foreign language album for Americans is something that we are not used to. For the rest of the world it really is not an issue, but because so much comes out in English listening to something that breaks that mold can be a bit shocking. While the words might be new to you, the rhythms and energy from this African outfits first record is undeniable. From the first minute you are transported to somewhere new and bustling. This record could be about a coastal city filled with interesting people or some outer space outpost it works on both levels. What is really impressive is the vibe the band is able to get without dipping to far into the electronic world. What they do with drums and guitars is really really impressive. Speaking on drums strap in because they are stellar on From Kinshasa. Really adventurous and interesting progressions that somehow never stray from keeping time show just how masterful this group is when it comes to percussion. There is a back beat that never fades despite what they sing or start to play. It is some truly incredible stuff.

What really sets this record apart is that it is a totally new sound for most listeners. If you don't have experience in African music then this record will be a great way to get into it. This record moves past borders and takes a local sound and makes it palpable for a mainstream audience. Their connection to their music is on the forefront of every track. From the slow moving "Coco Blues" to the high pace of "Shegue" you can not help but get wrapped up with them, which in all honesty does cause a few issues. At times the record can come across as slightly amateur because of it's live sense. The songs run over five minutes more often than they don't and lead to a lot of repetitive lines over and over. This would be great for a vibey dance party, but on an album it feels like a lack of editing. "Suzanna" is a good example of this, it has an awesome line but around minute four you are done with it and it's time to let it fade out. Though it does have flaws this is really some next level African music and has the potential to really break this band into the mainstream conversation.  

8 out of 10