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Buraka Som Sistema

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Location: Lisboa, Portugal

Website: http://www.myspace.com/burakasomsistema

Bio: The wild beats of Angolan Kuduro music have been big in Lisbon clubs since the late 90s and Buraka Som Sistema - AKA Lil' John, ... (more) Riot and Conductor – have fused it with 21st century electronics to create a whole new sound. Now this grimey electro ghettotech take on their favourite South West African music has is quickening and corrupting dancefloors all over the world, and they haven't even released their debut album yet!

Lil John and Riot began making music together in their teens, but the core of Buraka Som Sistema formed when the two began working with Angolan producer, Conductor, who brought along an extensive knowledge of Kuduro music to the equation. The three draw influences from the music of their youth and culture, fusing it with the inspiration taken from music genres as diverse as drum'n'bass, hip hop and dance music. A revolving cast of talents complete the picture for Buraka, including guest vocals/MCing from Petty, M.I.A., Pongolove, Kalaf, No Lay, DJ Znobia.

Despite having only two limited 12" releases under their belts in the UK to date, the band's unique sound has already made them favourites with critics and DJs alike. Championed by Diplo, M.I.A, the Count of Monte Cristal and Sinden, Buraka also scored FACT MAGAZINE's 12" of the Year for "Yah!" and were finalists in MTVs New Sound of Europe competition. Their video for "Sound of Kuduro" featuring M.I.A. has become a viral sensation online. It features footage of their recent trip to Angola, where kids are dancing in the streets, despite being surrounded by all manner of violence.

Buraka Som Sistema are currently in the studio putting the final touches on their debut album, tentatively titled "Black Diamond" and due out September 2008. Tracks span the width and breadth of their influences with a distinctly political edge, referencing the inescapable corruption that goes hand in hand with the presence of diamonds and oil.

Quickly becoming renowned for their captivating and involving live show, catch the band on the festival circuit this summer, and stay tuned for more details.
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