Midnight in a Perfect World: KOKOKO!

Midnight In A Perfect World
07/14/2025
Alex Ruder
photo by Xavier Thomas

KOKOKO! is a Congolese experimental electronic music project with a unique sound featuring homemade, unconventional instruments made from scrap, and lyrics that touch upon political problems within their home country. Last year they released their energetic sophomore album BUTU which found the current duo of vocalist Makara Bianko and electronic producer Xavier Thomas (aka Débruit) channelling a more electronic, upbeat sound. This past March KOKOKO! performed a thrilling Live on KEXP session that can be viewed on KEXP’s YouTube channel.

KOKOKO!'s exclusive guest DJ mix for Midnight in a Perfect World provides a fascinating glimpse into their sonic influences from the past, and inspiration from the present, shedding light on some of their favorite proto-post-punk, experimental electronic, and cutting-edge club sounds from all over the world.

Artist Title
Midnight in a Perfect World Intro
The Slits Earthbeat
Golden Teacher Diop
Francis Bebey Savannah Georgia
Negib Ould Ngainich Guetna
Quirino Do Canto Mino Di Mama
Yeli Fuzzo Abandé
Kaba Blon Moribiyassa
KOKOKO! Bazo Banga
Moğollar Berkay Oyun Havasi
Liquid Liquid Push
Farai Inhale Exhale
Rey Sapienz & The Congo Techno Ensemble Eza Makambo
CDM, DJ LiloCox & DJ Maboku Viemos Do Congo
Roga Roga & Extra Musica BOKOKO
Exile Di Brave & Time Cow Run (feat. Gavsborg)
Bab Lee Sous Les Cocotiers
Tshetsha Boys Nwampfundla
DJ Travella Mchakamchaka

 


Midnight in a Perfect World, KEXP's weekly hour-long guest DJ show, airs Fridays at midnight. This multi-genre program features eclectic sets by a rotating cast of international and local DJ's, each building upon a party vibe to kick off your weekend. Midnight in a Perfect World  is made possible with support from New Belgium Brewing.

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