KONKOLO ORCHESTRA Vinyl & CDs

Review: Based in Zurich, Switzerland, Konkolo Orchestra is led by multi-instrumentalist Alexis Malefakis and celebrates Afrobeat and highlife legends like Fela Kuti and Tony Allen. Their debut album follows the vibrant, percussive style of their standout 2022 single 'Blue G.' Featuring guest vocalists Nongoma, Sir Frank Karikari, and Kitio Batola as well as Ghanaian percussionist Eric Owusu, this album blends uplifting lyrics with a powerful horn section that powers it all onwards and upwards. Malefakis's production offers a funky, motivational atmosphere which means this one is great for more lively celebrations and warm winter days.

Review: Spanish reissue label Rocafort present this wonderful slice of highlife from Konkolo Orchestra, this time on nice blue wax as well as a plain black version. It's not exactly clear where, or indeed when, exactly the band came from, but their sound is all you need to worry about. 'Blue G' is a lilting, shuffling message of love and support for future generations, and from the message to the effervescent musicality, it's a no-brainer. On the flip, 'That Good Thing' is an instrumental that spirals outwards on the sweetest keys, joyous brass and dreamy guitar, driven by a pattering drum section to radiate good vibes wherever it's played.