Fulu Miziki - Ngbaka EP (Fluorescent Green Vinyl)

FULU MIZIKI roughly translates as “music from the garbage”, which in a literal sense is an accurate description of the thrillingly chaotic eco-friendly Afro-Futurist collective. The instruments they design, build and play are masterclasses in upcycling.

From guembris built out of computer casing, to jerry-can drum-kits, keyboard inventions from wood, springs and aluminium pipes, and old flip-flops used as pads by plastic tube-wielding percussion players, the Democratic Republic of Congo-formed group’s ethos lies in the respect of nature, the celebration of its gifts and the importance of its preservation through environmentalism.

Their new EP, entitled Ngbaka, finds Fulu Miziki embracing electronica textures and production styles, in a departure from their traditional sound. This shift in style was prompted by the Coronavirus lockdown in Kampala, Uganda (their current base): with rehearsal rooms and public spaces shut, the collective were forced inside and encouraged to conduct sonic experiments. Lead single "OK Seke Bien" is inspired by the church choir singing from the group members' childhoods.

1. OK Seke Bien (ft. Sekelembele)

2. Lokito (ft. DJ Final)

3. Bivada (ft. Sekelembele)

4. Mokili Makambo (ft. Sekelembele)

5. Toko Yambana (ft. DJ Final and Deboul)

6. Beta Ndule (ft. DJ Final and Deboul)