- artist:various artists
- featured artist:Royal Drum Ensemble
- region:Central Africa
- release year:1998
- style(s):Afro, Traditional
- country:Rwanda
- formats:CD (Compact Disc)
- record posted by:SWP Records
- label:SWP Records
- buy this record
In 1961 the Republic of Rwanda was proclaimed and five centuries of rule by the Tutsi Banyiginya dynasty came to an end. The Mwami, meaning 'king-shepherd', fled the country and the symbol of power, the royal drums, disappeared. The Kingdom of Ruanda was no more, neither was the court and the music exclusive to it was never heard again. Luckily Hugh Tracey was given permission to record at the court of Mutara III Rudahigwa, the last Mwami but one, when he toured the country in 1952 and these remarkable recordings give us an impression of this place of absolute power and yet beautiful music. One of the deepest drumming traditions of Africa, exquisite praise songs, amakondera horn ensembles. Great classical African music.