Matata - Independence

Matata (which means “trouble” in Swahili) was an African funk band who took nightclubs by storm and jammed with some of the biggest giants in soul, jazz and Latin music. The band had its roots in the Congo although it formed in Kenya in the mid-sixties. Matata was based around the famous ‘Starlight Club’ in Nairobi. The group retained elements of traditional music by incorporating instruments such as the ‘ngoma’ (a large drum) and an eight stringed guitar-harp called the ‘nyatiti’…this brought something different to their style and made for a unique sound. Each of the songwriters sang lead in their native tongues and this meant they used vocals in three African languages (next to the songs sung in English). As the sixties drew to an end Matata (sometimes also known as ‘Air Fiesta Matata’) were regulars on Kenyan television and enjoyed a national following. Originally released in 1974 on President Records, Tidal Waves Music now proudly presents the first official reissue of this seminal Afrobeat/Afrofunk album. This unique record comes as a deluxe 180g vinyl edition (strictly limited to 1000 copies worldwide) with obi strip and featuring the original artwork. This reissue also comes with an insert featuring pictures of the band and extensive liner notes from award winning author John Masouri. Released exclusively for Record Store Day Black Friday 2021 and available in participating stores on November 26, 2021.