Tradi-Mods vs. Rockers - Alternative Takes On Congotronics, Vol. 2 (Bonus Track Version)

iTunes Review

This is the second volume of the excellent compilation, Tradi-Mods vs. Rockers, where indie artists and electronic musicians interpret the music of Congolese bands that have appeared on Congotronics, a series released by the excellent Belgian label Crammed Discs. Sam Shackleton takes on Kasai Allstars’ “Mukuba,” reassembling and altering various elements from the original to create an epic track that bears the mark of machines and minimalism. Brussels-based Hoquets, like some of the Congolese outfits, construct their own instruments, and on “Likembes,” which was inspired by Konono No. 1’s “Makembe,” they’ve come up with a track that evokes the twitchy energy of Captain Beefheart. “Conjugal Mirage,” by North Carolina’s Megafaun, based on Kisanzi Kongo’s “Soif Conjugale,” has a nice post-rock vibe and utilizes banjo, an all-American instrument rooted in Africa. Burnt Friedman’s “Rubaczech,” reinvents Konono No. 1’s “Masikulu”; the textures are Congolese, but the track has the flow of Burnt Friedman’s electronic work. The Mexican-American trio Allá’s “Mulu(Me),” inspired by Basokin’s “Mulume,” creates a lovely atmosphere.