Loketo

According to the liner notes of the multi-artist compilation African Ambience: The Ultimate African Dance Party, released in 2000, Loketo was "a sort of Zairian supergroup of 'new generation' musicians known for a super-tight, high-energy, show with spectacular dancing and flawless vocals". One of the most important bands in the evolution of soukous, Loketo was formed by guitarist Diblo Dibala, shortly after he left Kanda Bongo Man's band in 1986. With Dibala's guitar interweaving with the powerful lead vocals of Aurlus Mabele, the keyboard playing of Ronald Rubinel and an energetic horn section, Loketo quickly became known for its dynamic rhythms and complex melodies. The group began to disintegrate in 1990, when Dibala and bandmates Freddy De Majunga (rhythm guitar), Miguel Yamba (bass), and dancers Antoinette Yelessa and Joelle Esso left to form Matchatcha.