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The duo in question are Congo born guitarist Niwel Tsumbu and drummer and percussionist Eamonn Cagney.

The guitar playing is superb: Tsumbu is eclectic in his styles and the freedom and fluidity with which he blends styles, from the Soukous and Rhumba of the Congo to jazz and classical. There’s no battle for frontman in this outfit either, as although Tsumbu dominates through sheer invention the vibe is of two musicians who play really listening to the other.

The songs - the longest standing at over thirteen minutes - are pretty epic journeys and hark back to the hazy days of prog-rock guitar solos lasting longer than your average Sunday lunch. That’s no criticism, and it doesn’t feel self-indulgent here, it’s just there’s a lot to be told, a lot of talent to unfold, and no rush to cram it into three minutes.

Based in Cork, the duo are among good company in a city with a strong musical reputation and a fair few decent Congolese musicians, and Tsumbu is to be seen collaborating with a wide range of artists. However, if Uh! eza nzela molayi is your introduction you won’t forget the name.

Links:
Niwel Tsumbu’s site
JazzMu’s MySpace
Niwel Tsumbu’s MySpace