Kibera by Johnny Vigeti ft. Lutan Fyah

Kibera is undergoing a renewal. For decades maligned as a slum and a haven for criminal activity, it is fighting to show the world its true face. Not, however, by throwing stones and uprooting railway lines. Rather, the arts community in this densely populated region are using their gifts to tell a different story, to tell the world the realities of living in Kibera and what they are doing to improve their lot. The message, whether delivered through art by the masai mbili art collective or, in the amazing new release by Johnny Vigeti, former member of legendary hip hop group Kalamashaka. He collaborates with Jamaican reggae artist Lutan Fyah, and the track is definitely one for your collection. Whether or not you are a reggae or hip hop fan you will love the way the lyrics tell a story, punchy and incisive. There is none of that melodramatization you hear in so many songs about disadvantaged areas, it is an honest and nearly brutal account and yet does not take itself too seriously- this is a track that will make you bump your head, though this might cause your brain some chagrin as the power of the words sinks in.

The bumping of heads is due, in large part, to controversial Swedish rapper-producer Ken Rings. He is the man behind the beat that will linger in your mind just as long as the insightful and deep lyrics that Johnny spits out effortlessly. Give this one a listen, it will be four and a half minutes well spent.