Grounded in the rich musical heritage of Malawi, Africa, the Kasambwe Brothers have been making music together for almost 40 years. Using homemade instruments — a bass guitar crafted from a tree branch, and a suitcase drum set made with animal skin — this dynamic trio creates infectious grooves using traditional rhythm and soulful harmony. Inspired by their deep cultural heritage, their music has transcended borders and has begun captivating audiences worldwide. Band member Konzani Chikwata explains that “the unique thing about our music is that we are greatly inspired by our tradition.”

Through a collaboration between MASS MoCA and renowned independent record label Hen House Studios, the Brothers made their first trip to the United States to take part in a residency at MASS MoCA during which they recorded their first full-length album at Studio 9, conducted a high-energy Art Assembly, and performed in the Hunter Center. The self-titled album that the Brothers recorded at Studio 9 during their on-campus residency became the inaugural release of MASS MoCA Records, a label created in conjunction with Hen House Studios which was created to provide an alternative to the current commercial model of how independent music is heard, developed, and shared.

Learn more about MASS MoCA Records here.