Combining elements of ’80s boogie, contemporary Congolese guitars, and “Afro-Cuban workouts.”

Strut is releasing Congolese vocalist Juanita Euka’s debut solo album, titled Mabanzo, this March.

Created and recorded entirely during lockdown, the album was produced by Greg Sanders, with all musicians contributing remotely.

Across its 8-tracks, Euka draws on elements of ’80s boogie, contemporary Congolese guitars, and “Afro-Cuban workouts”.

It follows Strut’s release of Miriam Makeba’s Keep Me In Mind — one of our favourite reissues of 2021.

Pre-order Mabanzo here in advance of its 25th March release, check out the artwork and tracklist below.

Tracklist:

Side A

2. Mboka Moko

3. For All It’s Worth

4. Sueños De Libertad

Side B

2. Na Lingi Mobali Te

3. Motema

4. Blood