Six years ago a wonderful thing happened. Brussels-based record company Crammed Discs discovered the magic of a group of Congolese musicians who had (in varying line-ups) been playing together since the 60s. The group was titled L’orchestre Folklorique T.P. Konono No. 1 de Mingiedi (or Konono No. 1 for short). Using mostly homemade instruments and incorporating elements ranging from traditional ritualistic to rock and electronica, the group have received acclaim the world over, supporting and playing alongside such artists as Bjork and Herbie Hancock. Performing as part of 2011’s Melbourne Festival program, this was their first visit to Australia. Judging by the reception, it will hopefully not be their last.
As the opener for the evening, Bachelorette followed up her intimate performance at The Toff earlier in the week with a show in The Forum’s much larger, much more elegant theatre. This setting, and sound system, seemed to intensify and strengthen her layered and atmospheric music. However, her performance style seemed a little lacking and not meeting the energy levels of those watching her. Regardless of this, Bachelorette is a steadily growing artist in terms of both musicality and popularity, and her set was full of interesting, sonically pleasing soundscapes.
One thing that must be said about this entire evening is the sheer diversity of the crowd in attendance. When looking around the room, one could see young, old, indie, metal, blue collar and white collar all enjoying the show equally. In fact, the crowd on this particular evening had nearly as much variety as the festival program itself.
As soon as Konono No. 1 took the stage, the entire audience fused into one giant, happy, dancing entity. This music was so joyous and without pretence that you could not help being drawn in to their traditional yet wholly new sound. Their instruments (often made using old car parts or trash) produced the most incredible melodic noises, while their performance, on-stage energy, pulsing rhythm and commitment to tradition did nothing but intensify the already massive euphoria being experienced in the crowd. In fact, one group of audience members were so taken by what was happening, they stormed the stage to dance, play and even sing along with the group, twice! Either these were friends/relatives or security was having too good a time to notice this occurring (it would not be surprising at all if the latter were true).
In a festival that offered some of the best music, theatre, dance and visual art in the world, this was surely a highlight and will be remembered for a long time to come by all who were present. Perhaps it will even be remembered until their next visit (fingers crossed).
– Nigel Moyes
