Mdungu

is convincing proof that swinging Afrojazz can also come from the Netherlands. Only in 2009, six years after its foundation, the band made its debut on CD with Afro What!? Afrobeat, jazz, griot-music from Mali and funk melt here into a delicious massive sound. The Gambian Dutchman Ebou Gaye Mada, of Ifang Bondi, plays percussion and raps. Michiel Bel’s and Frank Gones’ guitar-playing is enormously propelling on the one hand but at the same time you hear beautifully screeching solos. But the sound of this band is first and foremost defined by the three-strong mighty wind section who form the frontline of the band. Tenor sax David Beukers, Job Chajes of the Amsterdam Klezmer Band on baritone sax and founder Thijs van Milligen himself on alto, make for a deliciously swinging gang. Drummer Benoit Martiny, percussionist Ruben Montes and Merijn van Wijdeven on double bass take care of the finishing touch. The band have played on many stages and festivals in the past year. It is impossible to stand still or remain sitting, there’s a party everywhere.