Zaire Ngoma

Started in the 90s by Mzee Saruni and his family, Msaga Pore are a Giriama band from the surrounding villages of Kilifi, Kenya. Their Mijikenda sound is called Zaire Ngoma, and their main percussive instruments are a set of homemade Mbumbumbu drums - playfully called the Man, Woman and Children, due to their difference in size and sound.
Their lyrics cover a wide range of topics, from social teachings to songs of praise to dirges - all inspired by their life as fisher-folk and written to be performed for their neighbours and fellow clansmen drinking palm wine after a long day of work. This is Zaire Ngoma 1, their debut release on Music From East Africa.
All songs on this first release of a series have been recorded right in their home village Saruni (named after Mzee's father himself). Over traditional Giriama percussion, the Saruni family showcases their intricate calls and responses across three generations on this undiluted and original record.