Mijikenda by Katoi Wa Tabaka & The Mijikenda Jazz Band

„Mijikenda“ by Katoi Wa Tabaka and his Mijikenda Jazz Band marks the debut EP for this critically acclaimed ensemble of musicians and ingeniously incorporates their Mijikenda fusion sound in four mesmerising songs.

Katoi’s music is built on the polyrhythms that form the basis of the Mijikenda (the 9 tribes who call Kenya’s coast their home) groove.
Although he loves to experiment and fuse with other modern styles like Jazz and Soul, the core “swung eighth” feeling is used in all his jams, and the music can be distinctly identified as Mijikenda. Keyboardist Ahmed brings in elements of the old coastal Taarab and infuses with it the Giriama style percussive excursions, often with great harmonic complexity. An amazing singer, bassist and composer in his own right, he has been vital in shaping the sound of Katoi wa Tabaka. The band’s percussionist Kazungu has his roots in traditional healing ceremonies and is known for his ability to make the drums speak.

Katoi Wa Tabaka founded his Mijikenda Jazz Band to meet the need for carrying on the rich musical heritage from the coast of Kenya. As a youth elder in his clan and mentor for many young people and organisations he has become a driving force in promoting the art scene in his home town Malindi, advocating for more exposure and communal appreciation for local artists.

Katoi Wa Tabaka founded his Mijikenda Jazz Band to meet the need for carrying on the rich musical heritage from the coast of Kenya. As a youth elder in his clan and mentor for many young people and organisations he has become a driving force in promoting the art scene in his home town Malindi, advocating for more exposure and communal appreciation for local artists.