Elani Gets Us KooKoo

Back in 2007/2008 a small group of poets, dancers, singers and spoken word enthusiasts would gather in a room at the Kenya National Theatre. What started as a small intimate gathering soon grew into a popular weekly event where all nature of performers would gather to showcase their talents. This was Kikaoo, and one of the groups that started showing up to perform at the Kikaoo events quickly becoming a hit among the gathering was Elani.

Their sound was and still is different we call it afro fusion with a twist, new-age afro fusion if you will. They derive some elements of their musical style from Sauti Sol, who had just broken into the mainstream music industry and occasionally turned up at Kikaoo to perform as well. However, what was memorable about them was that their songs were essentially stories with soul in them. That's why when we came across their YouTube channel and a video for their new song KooKoo we simply had to share.

Interesting facts about Elani is that music director extraordinaire Enos Olik used to be part of the group; if memory serves right he was always strumming away on his guitar during the group's Kikaoo performances. He has now directed several of the groups music videos as well as Sauti Sol's music videos including their recent controversial hit 'Nishike.'

Have a look at Elani's video KooKoo below and check out their other videos on their YouTube Channel ElaniMuziki.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZUoUxAhJmQ