Staff Benda Bilili

Review of their BBC PROMS 74 concert.

Thurs 6th Sept 2012 | Royal Albert Hall, London

They came, they saw and they conquered!!! The amazing performance from Staff Benda Bilili (SBB), supported by Baloji, enhanced their already considerable reputation, amazing story and justified the global hype that has followed them over the last 3 years. 

The new album “Bouger Le Monde!" (make the world shake) is groovier and musically more mature than their debut “Tres Tres Fort”. Opening with the trust of an F1 car on ‘Osali Mabe’, a man’s cry to a lover to return to home, they follow up with ‘Sopeka’ and ‘Bilanga’, the latter a scintillating afro-rock rumba that tears through dance floor. ‘Kulunga’, with rasping percussion and guitar riffs admonishes gangs of youngsters that ravage the city.

On ‘Apandjokwetu’, a groovy rumba and my favourite track, Ricky Likabu’s haunting vocals are filled with transcendent resolve and inspiration; a funky sound with raw, unpretentious vocals that only a live performance can truly do justice. The final track - "Mutu Esalaka" - is a beauty and classic congolese rumba; you won't hear better music this year!

The BBC Proms' concert showcased amazing musical power, with amazing dance tracks and energetic moves in abundance. With the transformation from humble beginnings to superstardom completed, SBB are now comfortable on the big stage; and on course to become one of the greatest funk bands of our generation, globally. It is a musical journey that will light up your spirit: "trop trop forts!”

New Album: "Bouger Le Monde" ~ Out now on Crammed Records

More info @ http://www.staffbendabilili.com/

Listen to the BBC Proms concert: http://www.bbc.co.uk/proms/whats-on/2012/september-06/14338