A European-African friendship under the Ibiza sun

Europe and Africa. Unfortunately this age old relationship of two continents and cultures is overshadowed by too many bad news, prejudices and fears these days. That’s why it is a relieve to feel some harmony for a change. The African-European project Na Lengo (Swahili for „with a goal“) reminds us of what beautiful things can be achieved once the two cultures, tempers and traditions play together and interconnect.

Its the friendship between African singer Denis Inyani and Spanish guitarist Gerald Guse that transcends borders and contrasts in Na Lengo. They met in Ibiza, where they both live and soon started writing Songs together and performing as a duo. Now they present their debut album Ingoma, recorded with the help of musician friends from Barcelona and German music producer Walter Quintus.

All songs on Ingoma breathe the Ibiza sun and relaxed lifestyle through a unique fusion of Jazz, Flamenco, Pop and of course traditional African music that is both vivid and melancholic. Walter Quintus’ production is both warm and soft without taking too much edge off the jazzy African nuances. Within all the harmony there is always space for surprising turns and changes in the arrangements, put forward by percussion and Guse’s versatile and virtuoso guitar. Above all the general vibe of Ingoma builds on the authenticity and the acoustic quality of the instruments, rather than relying on unnecessary effects. No wonder since the Zulu word Ingoma means simply „song“.

Na Lengo is an instant favourite of all those who value true cross-border world music of excellent quality and also of those who believe in the friendship between Africa and Europe. Against all odds.