Kasai Munene by Kasai Allstars

In this second single off the upcoming album by the legendary Kinshasa DRC collective, lead vocal duties are shared between the band’s mainstays: Muambuyi, Mi Amor, Kabongo and Tandjolo, who each sing here their own language, respectively Lulua, Kisonge, Tshiluba and Kitetela, an apt illustration of the theme which runs through the album (‘Unity Is Strength’), and is reflected in the album’s title: ‘Black Ants Always Fly Together, One Bangle Makes No Sound’.

‘Unity Is Strength’ is indeed an appropriate motto for a collective born from the reunion of five bands, all from the Kasai region, but originating from five different ethnic groups whose respective musical traditions and languages were thought to be incompatible until these musicians decided to pool their resources and work together, an inspiring example of collaboration transcending ethnic and language barriers.

Kasai Munene showcases the new sound of the band, who have enhanced their exhilarating trance music by blending in some intricate, self-made electronics beats with their customary array of guitars, traditional percussion, distorted thumb pianos etc.

The track is released in an edited version of the album mix, along with a clubby remix by Ekiti Sound, the Lagos/London based artist and producer, who is currently working on his second album for Crammed Discs (after his 2019 debut ‘Abeg No Vex’)

'Black Ants Always Fly Together, One Bangle Makes No Sound’ comes out on May 7, on Crammed Discs


tracklist:

1. Kasai Munene (Radio edit)
2. Kasai Munene (Ekiti Sound Remix).

This mythical collective, consisting of fifteen musicians from five ensembles from the Kasai region, is one of the most exciting bands in Kinshasa, DRC

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