N'Goma

Formed in 1989, Ngoma was one of Canada's first world music bands whose multicultural line-up generally consisted of four men and four women. Repertoire was in English, French, and Spanish, and live shows included the unique element of multi-instrumentalists switching instruments throughout the show as well as fire-juggling (which was still legal in nightclubs, in that era). Touring every province in Canada (including Newfoundland), throughout the US, and Central America, playing festivals, night clubs, and the first raves in Vancouver (in the early 90s), the band was known for its wide variety of musical styles performed, high energy all night dance parties, and regularly featured musical guests and extended improvisations. Ngoma put out four albums of all original music. Most members are still active in the music scene, in one way or another.