Zaïko Langa Langa, the ultimate Congolese dance machine, will be storming into London to shake off the rust from fans who haven't swayed to their music since... 1996!

The appointment is set for Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Clapham Grand. Soon after, on May 19, 2024, the oldest active Congolese group will revisit, as if on a pilgrimage, the Madeleine hall in Brussels.

In this Brussels haunt, Zaïko penned memorable pages of its history during the 80s. These concerts are far from routine for the band, which has ramped up rehearsal sessions with a heavyweight addition to the vocals: Malage de Lugendo will rekindle his rapport with Jossart N’Yoka Longo, the band's leader.

This is sure to enhance the talent of the other singers Vaugerard, Serge Kanza, Samy Matondo, Acouda..., as well as the fiery host Alain Biongo Mangubu. The recipe for a wild and complete party in London and Brussels, Zaïko's secretary "Sec Emma" reminds us with a corner smile: "Well-rehearsed choreographies, paired with expertly measured animations that Zaïko has etched into the DNA of Congolese rumba. But also a rich, varied, solid, and substantial repertoire that spans generations."

Jossart Muanza (AEM)