KONONO #1

About the Artist

Konono No. 1 was founded over 25 years ago by Mingiedi, a virtuoso of the likembé (a traditional instrument sometimes called a “sanza” or “thumb piano”).  The band’s line-up includes three electric likembés (bass, medium and treble).  The rhythm section uses traditional as well as makeshift percussion (pans, pots and car parts), singers, three dancers and a sound system.   The musicians come from an area, which sits right across the border between Congo and Angola.  Their repertoire draws largely on Bazombo trance music.  Their unique style connects them with the aesthetics of the most experimental forms of rock and electronic music.

Past Performances

November 22, 2005

Relocated from their Angola/Congo origin to Kinshasa, a city steeped in the traditional Bazombo trance music, the musicians of Konono #1 perform in their own unique African “Bazombo” style.

Play this Performance