Congotronics International

★★★★ Where’s The One? CRAMMED. CD/DL/LP

A decade on, the fabled Congotronics vs Rockers band finally sealed on wax. Featuring Juana Molina, Deerhoof, Wildbirds & Peacedrums and Skeletons’ Matt Mehlan, plus Konono No.1 and Kasai Allstars, the 2011 concerts by this orchestra of 19 – a spin-off from the

Tradi-Mods vs Rockers compilation – were a joyous exploration of possibility; just about the only thing they couldn’t do, it turned out, was be in the same place long enough to complete an album. Culled from shows and rehearsals, and edited into shape in 2021, gig highlights are re-imagined – Deerhoof’s Super Duper Rescue Allstars and Wildbirds’ Doubt/Hope are beefed up with distorted thumb piano reverb and extra percussion; the Congolese bolster their proto-Sister Ray groove with electronics and feedback (Kule Kule Redux a reminder of how intense and experimental the shows were). If you’ve been waiting 11 years for this, you’ll be relieved to know it won’t disappoint. Now get back on the road, gang.