Recording: Olivier Tshimanga

Artist: Olivier Tshimanga

Song: unknown^*

Recorded at Harbourfront Centre (Habari Africa Festival), August 10, 2019.

Olivier Tshimanga - unknown

Once again, the Habari Festival (curated by the always on-point Batuki Music Society) filled up Harbourfront Centre with African music and culture. If you believe clothes make the man, Olivier Tshimanga announced a lot about his personality by taking the stage in a bold and colorful polka-dot number. Clearly not one to shy away from the spotlight, Tshimanga had swagger to spare as he put on a guitar clinic (he is the creator of what he has dubbed "Tshimangology", a sort of ultra-nimble Afro-djent) and his band shredded through hypercharged versions of several styles. Tshimanga learned his craft in Papa Wemba's band, so his rumba/soukous moves were on point, adding even more notes to a genre known for featuring detailed guitar styles. This was his local debut, but he was definitely received as a proper star by the festival crowd.

^* Does anyone know the title to this one? Please leave a comment!