London Afrobeat Collective – Esengo (Canopy Records, 2024)
The London Afrobeat Collective’s latest creation Esengo, produced by Sonny Johns (renowned for collaborating with Tony Allen, Hugh Masekela, Oumou Sangare, Ali Farke Toure, and Polar Bear) pays homage to the essential Afrobeat traditions. Moreover, it presents the band’s commitment to crafting original music that transcends genres. Notably, Esengo features the acclaimed Congolese singer Juanita Euka once again. To emphasize, Esengo embodies the spirit of Fela Kuti while embracing a willingness to explore and innovate within the realm of music.
In addition to the Fela Kuti influences, the band brings other genres into the mix such as funk, highlife, Congolese rumba and Afro-Cuban music, inspired by musicians like Ebo Taylor, Parliament, Funkadelic, and Havana d’Primera.
Interestingly,, the music of the London Afrobeat Collective appeals to diverse audiences, with its multilingual performances in English, Spanish, Lingala, and French.
This culturally diverse ensemble includes musicians from England, Italy, France, Congo, Argentina, and New Zealand.
London Afrobeat Collective released their debut album, L.A.C. in 2010. They were shortlisted for the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Award and opened the West Holts stage in 2011. Subsequent festival appearances at Bestival, Secret Garden Party, Green Man, and Cheltenham Jazz Festival followed. Their second album Food Chain turned out to be another winner.
Author: Iliana Cabrera
