Fulu Miziki Discusses Upcoming Tremor Performance
Fulu Miziki: The Kinshasa Electro-Punk Ensemble Transforming Trash into Tunes Just in Time for Tremor Festival
By Alastair Shuttleworth
As the sun set over São Miguel, Azores, anticipation builds for the unique sounds of Fulu Miziki at this year’s Tremor Festival, a gathering celebrated for its eclectic blend of global artists. But before they take the stage, Kinshasa’s avant-garde electro-punk outfit opens up about their revolutionary approach to music—and life.
Hailing from the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s capital, Fulu Miziki—translating roughly as "music from the garbage"—is rising to prominence not only for their infectious rhythms but also for their innovative instrument creation and environmental consciousness. For decades, Kinshasa has been grappling with a severe plastic waste crisis; according to reports, less than 20% of the 10,000 tonnes of daily waste is collected, leaving the city’s landscape littered with plastic. In the midst of this crisis, Fulu Miziki emerges as a beacon of creativity, transforming discarded materials into vibrant sounds.
Formed in 2003 by Pisko Crane, the group embodies a fierce sense of resourcefulness and environmental awareness. Their debut album N’Djila Wa Mudujimu arrived in 2022 after nearly two decades of electrifying live performances that engaged local communities and audiences worldwide. Building instruments from PVC pipes, oil cans, and other refuse, their music resonates with an ardent energy that marries traditional Congolese storytelling with a punk ethos. With their latest EP, Mokano, issued last year through Moshi Moshi, the band explores themes of unity, healing, and ecological responsibility—an urgent message encapsulated in the EP’s standout track “Bopeto,” which calls for sanitation and cleanliness.
“Creativity has no limit – when you’re curious, you always end up knowing something great,” they express over email, embodying a spirit of unwavering curiosity and experimentation. This ethos extends beyond the music itself; their live shows are a kaleidoscope of sight and sound, often featuring elaborate masks that not only enhance their visual identity but also nod to cultural traditions long ingrained in Congolese heritage. “Masks are part of our identity,” they explain. “They match with our soul.”
Throughout their journey, the influence of Kinshasa’s vibrant arts scene has played a pivotal role in shaping Fulu Miziki’s ethos. From the performance art of Ndaku Ya La Vie Est Belle, who have donned costumes made from soda cans and dolls’ heads, to the techno-punk rhythms of KOKOKO!, collaboration and innovation abound in the city’s creative landscape. “When you talk about music, you talk about Congo,” they emphasize. “Beats are in our hearts. There’s so much in Congo that hasn’t been seen by the world, and we can’t wait to see more and more of us coming to the world.”
Their collaboration with UK’s Moshi Moshi has allowed their studio projects to complement their explosive live performances. “Touring is everything,” they affirm, noting the profound difference between creating music in isolation and sharing it with international audiences—a dynamic that continually nurtures their artistic evolution.
As they gear up for Tremor Festival, Fulu Miziki are clear about their intentions for the audience. “Have your dancing shoes on — things are about to get messy. Do hydrate as well,” they quip, building excitement for what promises to be a high-octane performance that will echo the group’s spirited commitment to environmental consciousness and musical exploration.
Fulu Miziki—where the echoes of Kinshasa meet the pulse of the global underground—expands the narrative of what music can be in the age of the climate crisis. Through their infectious energy and innovative spirit, they invite the world to join in a celebration of resilience, creativity, and connection.
For full festival details and limited remaining tickets to Tremor Festival, click here. Get ready to dance, and remember to hydrate!
