working with Konono #1

Very early, I was into the idea of doing something with Konono No 1 from the Congo [the collective whose amplified thumb pianos provide the backing beat for Earth Intruders]. The sound they make is amazing – it’s like an electronic rhythm not stuck to a computer grid, which is very rare. I couldn’t go to the Congo unfortunately as it was impossible to get visas – you know, it’s not a peaceful place. So when the group had their trip to Belgium, their first trip out of Africa, I had to meet them. We didn’t spend very much time together to be honest, but I would like to think that it was just the beginning of something.

TheLipster.com, April 10 2008