Regular readers here will know we’re massive fans of The Hackney Empire, London’s premier East London soukous-pop band. Aside from their debut single that we released and epic live shows they’ve been busy in the studio completing their first album – 8 tracks or pure tropical sunshine energy. Collaborations come from Sierra Leonian High Life legends Papa Milo & Folo Graff as well as Afrikan Boy and congolese MC Kastro. Watch out for the official release dropping soon.

Londoners can catch them this weekend at Islington Town Hall and at the next Palm City Social on March 9th.