Magnificent roots from 1996. An expertly dubwise rhythm, with rolling, nyabinghi drums, deep bass, and terrific trombone. Militant lyrics with no let-up; dramatically delivered, channelling Burning Spear and Pablo Moses.

A compelling Spear-style chant over a bumping rhythm, from 2000. Ace.

A fabulous survey of early Congolese recordings, 1948-1963.
We can’t recommend it strongly enough.

Also sub-titled ‘Kinshasa/Brazzaville 1969-1982’.
‘These new sounds emerged at a time when the Congolese record industry – previously dominated by European major labels – was experiencing a period of decline due to rising production costs.The void was filled by dozens of entrepreneurs willing to take chances on smaller scale releases. It was the beginning of a golden age for Congolese independent record labels, and the best of them – Cover N°1, Mondenge, Editions Moninga, Super Contact – preserved the work of some of the region’s finest artists, while launching a generation of younger musicians into the spotlight.
‘Congo Funk! is the story of these sounds and labels, but also it is the story of two cities, separated by water but united by an indestructible groove. The fourteen songs on this album showcase the many facets of the Congolese capitals, and highlight the bands and artists, famous and obscure, who pushed Rumba to new heights and ultimately influenced the musical landscape of the entire continent and beyond.’

Beautifully relaxed, intimate recordings of fingerstyle guitar masterpieces by stars like Jean-Bosco Mwenda, Losta Abelo, and Emmanuel Mulemena, and brilliant but previously under-recorded artists like Tanzania’s Francis Kitime and Kenya’s Mtonga Wanganangu. From 1979-80, the sessions were set up in homes, village squares, and watering holes; you can hear laughter, children playing, and glasses clinking.
Lovely stuff.