On the Rumba River

Jacques Sarasin's documentary travels deep into Africa to present a profile of Antoine Kolosoy, better known to fans of Congolese music as Wendo. Octogenarian performer Wendo, who recorded his first album in 1948, traces his own career in a parallel line to Congo's tumultuous and often tragic history: the years of brutal Belgian colonial occupation (when performing songs in native languages was forbidden by law), the chaos during the independence movement, the corrupt repression of Mobutu Sese Seko's regime, and the subsequent upheaval of civil war in the post-Mobutu years. Throughout the turmoil, Wendo's music served as both a welcome distraction for a war-ravaged country and a reminder that cultural beauty could still thrive amidst the wreckage brought about by social and military conflict. Wendo himself was not immune from his country's upheavals—for many years he was forced into destitution when Mobutu held power—but a late-life comeback ensured that “Papa Wendo” never lost his place in the hearts of his fellow Congolese. The heart of On the Rumba River finds Wendo—a natural charmer and still vibrant performer—rounding up his former bandmates, who join him in recalling the triumph of the artist's peak years. An emotional human story wrapped in an intoxicating African musical package, this documentary (which features bonus music tracks) is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)