We had the pleasure of inviting Congolese superband Jupiter & Okwess to the Africa Express train tour in 2012. Their infectious energy and musicianship was undeniable then, and it’s a delight to see the global release of their second album Kin Sonic today. The album features collaborations from fellow Africa Express alumni Warren Ellis of Nick Cave’s Bad Seeds on violin and Damon Albarn on keys. Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja also offered his own contribution in designing the album cover.
In true Jupiter style, the album blends political critique with storytelling and engrossing rhythms, offering a kaleidoscopic soundscape of today’s Congo. You’ll hear the sound of Jupiter’s experiences, from living on the streets of Kinshasa (at age 18) to touring the world, cascading through the album. All of this held down by sturdy basslines from Yendé, impossibly dexterous rhythms from Montana (of Staff Benda Bilili) and infectious riffs from guitarists Eric and Richard – Blaise’s vocals provide a counter point to Jupiter’s enigmatic bass tone.
You can catch this Congolese powerhouse live at Camden Assembly on August 25th, alongside Mali’s BKO Quartet. Tickets are still available here. Kin Sonic is out now on Glitterbeat Records, available on CD, 180g vinyl and digitally.
Watch the video to the lead single Okafombolo here and stream the album below: