Congotronics 2 is the second compilation of electro-traditional groups hailing from Kinshasa, Congo, where electronic amplification is changing the face of traditional tribal music. The sound is a unique and fascinating creation, stemming from the serendipitous collision of form and function. As the music has been amplified electronically through DIY means, it has picked up distortion and other noise-related harmonics which are generally associated with western pop and rock. The result is a technological accident which puts an interesting twist on what normally would be considered traditional world music when played acoustically.

The brilliant part about this release is the inclusion of a DVD which shows this incredible music being performed live in the middle of the urban Congo environment. We get to see wild instruments like the electric likembe being played, which is basically a thumb piano with a homemade pickup that makes it sound like a fuzzed-out bass guitar. Add to that an array of makeshift instrumentation made from a wide variety of items like sardine cans and hubcaps, and you'll see just how creative these artists can be.

We also see people dancing and interacting with the music and musicians, adding another visual dimension to the music and its impact on the community at large. We're seeing traditional music becoming pop music right before our eyes, skipping years of transition to happen almost instantaneously. The curious thing about this is that there is little or no obvious influence from the West. This is a pop music which is all their own, created right there in the Congo.

This is fascinating and refreshing at the same time, as it shows that music has a life of its own throughout the world, made with a passion that knows no borders or cultural binds.

MISH MASH Mandate: Welcome To The Jungle

Crammed Records Website

Breakup Breakdown

Sometimes a guilty pleasure can make you forget about feeling guilty, and Breakup Breakdown does just that. Let's face it, these guys (and gal) are unapologetic about their pouting and preening garage-band glam---they know exactly what they're doing.

The band careens through the three short and sweet songs on this single, pulling out every trick in their glamour bag. The music struts along, showing off the group's pop tart pedigree, as lead singer James Sparber conjures up the spirit of every ego-centric frontman who ever pranced across the stage with a wink and a nod.

This is like the junk food of music and will probably rot your teeth, but in the end who cares when you're having this much fun? You can always regret it in the morning.

MISH MASH Mandate: Wham Bam Glam
Cordless Recordings Website