Dizzy Mandjeku & Odemba OK Allstars – Odemba Nostalgie – Rumba Congolaise (Zephyrus Records, 2024)
Dizzy Mandjeku, a renowned guitar maestro, has made significant contributions to Congolese rumba over the years. Known for his guitar riff in Stromae’s “Papaoutai,” his decade-long tour with Zap Mama, and his collaboration with Baloji, Mandjeku’s work is impressive. He built a substantial repertoire with the greats of Congolese rumba, a genre influenced by Cuban rumba that evolved to incorporate traditional elements with modern instruments. This evolution, spearheaded by Franco Luambo and his band T.P.O.K. Jazz, gave birth to the unique style known as Rumba Odemba. Mandjeku, a former member of T.P.O.K. Jazz, later established the Odemba OK Allstars in Brussels to preserve this distinctive style.
In honor of Franco Luambo, Mandjeku arranged six songs he previously performed with Luambo into two medleys: “Odemba #1” and “Odemba #2.” The two tracks feature spectacular, intricate guitar work, engaging vocals, powerful brass and hot-blooded rhythms.
“Odemba Nostalgie – Rumba Congolaise” pays homage to the enduring and irresistible tradition of Congolese rumba. Produced by Toms Ntale and mixed by Vincent Kenis (Crammed Discs), the album offers an authentic experience that immerses listeners in the vibrant, cross-cultural, and groundbreaking music scene of Congo.
Buy Odemba Nostalgie – Rumba Congolaise.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.