We recently sat down for a Q&A with Congolese-influenced and Montreal-based group, Jazzamboka.
JSF: You are a group formed of five Quebec residents, two of Congolese origin you certainly do not limit yourselves to conventional jazz. How did Jazzamboka come together?
JB: Elli and Noel have been playing together since they were 14 and decided to come together as a drum/percussion duo. From there, came the idea of adding harmonic instruments, like piano and horns, and that’s how Julien and Felix joined the band and Jazzamboka saw its birth.
JSF: You blend many different styles of music including hip-hop, soukous, funk, rock, electronic, and the music of Central Africa. What is the creative process like when you are drawing on so many different genres?
JB: There is no standard creative process that we follow. We start from a bass line or piano riff and then try to bring different ideas together. We must always keep in mind that the body of our compositions has to be filled with Congolese rhythms and melodies.
JSF: What is the most essential aspect of Jazzamboka’s unique sound?
JB: The unity of Jazzamboka is the coming together of the five instruments. What makes us unique is the presence of the ngomas (traditional Congolese percussions). The identity of the band is the authentic mix of the five distinct musicians, brought together during creation and performance.
JSF: Where do you draw inspiration for your music and your performances?
JB: Inspiration is drawn from all five composers, each with their own unique background. In addition, unity is found in a common musical inspiration that unifies each musician’s taste. The group is inspired by Lionel Loueke, Avishai Cohen, Fally Ipupa, Chris Potter.. all traditional renowned artists from the Congo that continue to be inspirational to new generations.
JSF: Alive or dead, in an ideal world, who would be the top three musicians you would like to collaborate with?
JB: Lionel Loueke, Richard Bona, Fally Ipupa!
JSF: This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Jazz Sudbury Festival! You will be playing our mainstage and our Afterhours event. What are you most looking forward to at the festival?
JB: We’re really glad to be invited to this special edition and are looking forward to discovering the festival. It will be great meeting all the fantastic musicians and staff. We hope to give everyone a great show!
