Niwel Tsumbu - Milimo (2024)

“Milimo” is the debut album by Nivel Tsumbu, a guitarist from the Democratic Republic of Congo who grew up on the rhythms of Congolese Soukous and Rhumba music. Since moving to Ireland in 2004, he has become a highly sought after performer and is now touring with the famous Rhiannon Giddens band. The album “Milimo” combines elements from Africa, Europe and America and embodies a new African classical tradition. It features responses to the work of musicians such as J.S. Bach, Paco de Lucia, Luambo Macchiadi and Charlie Parker. The album represents the culmination of Tsumbu's many years of work and showcases his talent and unique, virtuosic approach to the guitar. Standout tracks from the album include “Gracias Paco” with deft guitar phrases, “Rubato” with flamenco flavors, “Polyphony” with counterpoint technique and “Masta” with vocal arrangements. The album closes with the spontaneous composition “The Silence Within”. “Milimo” is a recording of beautiful music that reflects Tsumbu's exploratory spirit and his variety of styles and techniques.

Tracklist:
1-1. Niwel Tsumbu - Rubato (02:28)
1-2. Niwel Tsumbu - Milimo (03:11)
1-3. Niwel Tsumbu - Tirizah (01:28)
1-4. Niwel Tsumbu - Étude I (00:41)
1-5. Niwel Tsumbu - Masta (03:25)
1-6. Niwel Tsumbu - Polyphony (01:50)
1-7. Niwel Tsumbu - Gracias Paco (02:39)
1-8. Niwel Tsumbu - Étude II (00:19)
1-9. Niwel Tsumbu - Afrique Moderne (02:32)
1-10. Niwel Tsumbu - Tears of Joy (03:01)
1-11. Niwel Tsumbu - Étude III (00:11)
1-12. Niwel Tsumbu - The Silence Within (03:00)
1-13. Niwel Tsumbu - To Be Continued (03:38)