Kuya Kaya Chico Matada

• 1 Kuya Kaya 05:17
• 2 Playing in the Rain 05:05
• 3 Hiona Mbilo 05:10
• 4 Here & Yet There 04:00
• 5 Search Within 06:43
• 6 Maputa Sunset 03:05
• 7 Departures & Pathways 06:41
• 8 Someday (Idai) 03:58
• Total Runtime 39:59

Info for Kuya Kaya

Chico Matada is a Mozambique-born drummer, composer, and bandleader whose music bridges African rhythmic traditions with modern jazz, cinematic textures, and improvisation. Now based in Finland, Matada draws deeply from the Ndokodo music of the Ndau people, shaping a distinctive compositional voice rooted in tradition yet open to contemporary expression.

Chicollective is the result of seven years of artistic development. The album presents Matada’s unique musical language, where deeply rooted rhythmic heritage meets a modern, exploratory approach. The music moves between meditative atmospheres and vibrant rhythmic interplay, inviting the listener into a space of reflection, presence, and emotional connection.

Chico Matada, drums, compositions
Nikita Rafaelov, piano
Hector Lepe, guitar
Juuso Rinta, double bass
Tomi Nikku, trumpet

Chico Matada
is a Mozambique-born drummer, composer, and bandleader whose music bridges African rhythmic traditions with modern jazz, cinematic textures, and improvisation. Now based in Finland, Matada draws deeply from the Ndokodo music of the Ndau people, shaping a distinctive compositional voice rooted in tradition yet open to contemporary expression.

Formed in 2018, Chico Matada Quintet came together on the streets of Helsinki’s live music circuit, where musicians come together to jam and play with their bands. This is where drummer Chico Matada met with his future band members, and together they are part of the city’s growing and vital jazz scene.

Drawn from a mix of influences ranging from traditional and contemporary African music to Nordic folk melodies, infused with Jazz harmony, the band’s music is characterised by memorable melodic lines and symphonic arrangements. The live show displays their unique approach to perform music with complex structures and fine use of improvisation, yet easy to listen and enjoyable for every music fan.

This album contains no booklet.