EVENT: A CELEBRATION OF JOSEPH KAMARU - WED, 12TH NOV
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Bask in the sounds of the king of Kikuyu benga. A launch party for the 'Heavy Combination' compilation with KMRU and Disciples. Q&A, full album playback and KMRU 'Kenyan Classics' DJ set.
The shop will be open throughout the evening, so you can pick up your copy of the record.
A crucial introduction to the ‘King of Kikuyu Benga’!
17 tracks that run the gamut from vibrant dancefloor chants with high life-esque guitars, to afro funk, drum machine and keyboard driven disco grooves, and folk style laments. The music is raw, immediate, danceable, and packed full of memorable hooks. The incisive lyrics range from protest songs to relationship advice. Joseph Kamaru was an incredibly popular figure in his native Kenya.
Compiled by his grandson, the sound artist KMRU, in partnership with Disciples, the tracks have been carefully remastered from original tape transfers by Dubplates & Mastering in Berlin. Sleeve designed by Karolina Kołodziej using original archive material from the Kamaru family vaults.
Extensive liner notes include essays by Kenyan academic Maina wa Mũtonya, music journalist Megan Iacobini de Fazio, and KMRU himself.
Capacity is limited. RSVP does not guarantee entry. Arrive early to avoid disappointment.