Review: Léa Mondo - Vices (Wah Wah 45s)

From a label that's celebrating it's 25th year, that "rediscovered" Dele Sosimi and has brought us many a "must have" release, a new voice originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, that's now resident in North London via the home of Northen Soul, Wigan! What sort of musical vices has she discovered.

As the label admits, it's a glorious "smorgasbord of experimental styles fusing aspects of soul, high life, bossa-nova, jazz and reggae" with a big side of Sade (happy 65th this week BTW) and Red Hot Chilli Peppers (when they were good).

The band consists of Jasmine Burton (bass), Alex Karakurt (drums), Tawanda Manika (guitar), Olivia Cuttill (trumpet), Max Rodriguez (rhythm guitar) along with the singer/songwriter/arranger/guitarist.

She'll be playing incredibly innovate Grow in Hackney Wick (near the Copper Box Arena) on 2nd February along with legend Vanessa Freeman (last seen with Reel People, see review HERE), label head honcho Dom Servini (last seen, by me that is, at WeOutHere Festival orchestrating the main stage) and more Wah Wah 45s favourites.

This new single follows 'Heights Of Love' (see review HERE) so we're getting excited at the prospect of a debut album for what is definitely a long way from Wigan, pier or otherwise: did I ever tell you of my pilgrimage to Wigan Pier or the snowed off game at Springfield Park? Another time eh!

Artist: Léa Mondo 

Release: Vices

Release Date: 19th January, 2023

Label: Wah Wah 45s

Catalog Number: Digital / BANDCAMP