Nearly a decade ago I was sort of dating this girl from Pretoria, South Africa and whenever we would discuss all of our favorite bands, she would mention KONGOS given their Pretorian roots. The band – made up of four brothers – is now based out of Phoenix, Arizona, but I can tell you from my love for and experience (albeit somewhat limited) with South Africa, The KONGOS just sort of scream South Africa in all the best ways.
Although 1929 is a bit of a departure from their earlier sound, it’s still unmistakably KONGOS. You never quite know what new sound you’re going to hear around each corner, especially since each and every member contributes vocally and brings a unique instrumental talent to the table. Whether it be a lap slide guitar or even an accordion.
Although their upbeat tracks make up much of their discography, it’s actually their slower tracks that hit the hardest on 1929. “Wild Hearts” is a personal favorite of mine and the emotive “When You’re Here” might be one of my favorite KONGOS tracks…ever. The debut single “Pay For The Weekend” is undeniably catchy as well.
1929 is something genuinely fresh and different right now, which is always more than welcome for listeners who demand a departure from the scientifically proven algorithms that tend to dominate airwaves. Give it a listen anywhere music is streaming.
