Kiazi Malonga, a powerful force in preserving and innovating the ancestral rhythms of the Congo, is a Congolese drummer from Oakland, California. Born into a family of esteemed master artists, he carries on a rich cultural legacy. Kiazi is the son and prodigy of the late Malonga Casquelourd, a world-renowned artist whose passion lives on through Kiazi's music. Recently, on March 13, 2024, he released his fourth album titled "Zu Dia Ngoma", which translates to "The Voice of the Drum."

The album begins with a track titled "Tsi Mbwani Ga Mbongui." Kiazi teams up with Congolese singer Tessia Moukila to incorporate vocals into his compositions, seamlessly blending the human voice with the rhythmic pulse of the Ngoma.

According to Kiazi's album press release, these compositions delve into mystical explorations of ancient Congolese folklore. They spin tales of courage, protection, and resilience while offering commentary on the challenging juxtaposition of infrastructure development in Africa and the important task of preserving cultural traditions in the face of modernization.

Kiazi's craft is deeply personal and guided by the memory of his parents, who departed when he was just 21. Their influence is woven through the very fabric of his compositions, infusing his music with a profound emotional resonance. With a commitment to the concept of "less is more," he creates bold and intentional music, where each note and lyric carries a powerful message. His music reflects the depth of his heritage and the importance of sharing it with the world.

The creation of Zu Dia Ngoma was a collaborative and transcontinental effort, bridging the gap between the United States and the Congo. Recording took place at Redtone Recording Studio in California and Digitech Studios in Brazzaville, Congo, over several months during the pandemic. The process involved composing music, melodies, and lyrics, infused with authentic vocals and flavors of traditional Congolese music through the collaboration of a Congo-based team.

Notably, the album features a remarkable collaboration with many other excellent musicians from Congo, such as ''Mavimba,'' on the song "Pelisa Kongo," which adds a fresh perspective to Kiazi's work. "Zu Dia Ngoma" is not just an album; it is a sonic expedition through the heart of Africa, capturing the rhythms of a rich heritage and the spirit of a dedicated artist. Kiazi Malonga's journey is a testament to the power of the Ngoma, a source of healing, heritage, and unity, resonating with the values of cooperation and empathy that transcend borders and cultures. Through his music, Kiazi invites the world to join in the chorus, celebrating the profound "Voice of the Drum."

Tsi Mbwani Ga Mbongui - Kiazi Malonga, Tessia Moukila [5:11]

Diaka Fungula - Kiazi Malonga, Tessia Moukila [4:58]

Siama Ma Mpandu - Kiazi Malonga, Blaise ‘’Patoto’’ Mbemba [3:29]

Batela - Kiazi Malonga, Tessia Moukila [4:34]

Ma Ba Ma Mseke - Kiazi Malonga, Tessia Moukila, Shelby Mampika [4:13]

Pelisa Kongo - Kiazi Malonga, Excellent Mavimba [4:42]

Mfiawukiri - Kiazi Malonga, Blaise ‘’Patoto’’ Mbemba [5:07]

Wa Tumba Ndje - Kiazi Malonga, Blaise ‘’Patoto’’ Mbemba [5:19]

Tala Kwa We Tuka - Kiazi Malonga, Christian “Mabanga”Boukaka [6:44]

Performed by: Kiazi Malonga, Tessia Moukila, Blaise ‘’Patoto’’ Mbemba, Christian “Mabanga” Boukaka, Excellent Mavimba, Shelby Mampika, Passa Passa

Written by: Kiazi Malonga, Chris Babingui, Mbemba Blaise Babindamana, Siama Mpandu Malonga, Tessia Moukila, Shelby Mampika, Excellent Mavimba, Praxcede Roslain Fila, Mbemba Blaise Babindamana, Christian Boukaka

Produced by: Kiazi Malonga, Justin Phipps

Kiazi Malonga, a Congolese American drummer, releases his fourth album "Zu Dia Ngoma", which translates to "The Voice of the Drum" on March 13, 2024.

Kiazi Malonga: Zu Dia Ngoma review - a collaborative and transcontinental effort

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