Music videos are more than visuals; they are windows into an artist’s world. Kodong Klan’s Disko is a perfect example of how the right video can elevate a song to a fulfilling musical experience. The song comes to life with every movement, every outfit and every character in the video. I am no music director, not even an artist, but I know that the amount of work that goes into one is immense.
The Audio Before the Visuals
We have all experienced it at some point, that moment when a song you have loved for ages, months in this case, gains new meaning after watching the video. Disko does exactly that. Other times, even a song you might have overlooked hits differently when the visuals give it context. And when that video is as perfect as the melody, you have no option but to pick up your dusty PC and write praise for it, as I am doing right now with Kodong’ Klan’s Disko. (The song, not the album. I hope they give us videos for the rest of the album, lol.)
Admittedly, I am a big fan of Kodong’ as individuals who have successfully mastered music as an art, and as a collective. The afro-pop, dancehall, hip-hop music group of 7 solo artists from Kenya has shown the world what it means to form a brotherhood that grows together yet separately all while bringing music to life. From love notes in Dholuo, playful tunes in Swahili and sometimes a blend of both, Kodong’ Klan is taking Kenya and the world by storm. Their music style amplifies the Kenyan style while incorporating globalised sound and they are bridging the gap between the old and the new. It is no wonder that their shows sell out and snippets of their live performances gain so much traction online. Kodong Klan is a movement and it is unstoppable.
When they gave us Disko, the audio, I was content. I was ready to ‘toka kwa nyumba niende disko’. I mean, the song does not leave you much of a choice. I have played it over and over, liked it and unliked it, just to like it again, added it to several playlists and played it all over again. Can you blame me, though? They might have added crack to it because there is no way it hits this hard. But then again, it’s Kodong’ Klan and I would not expect anything less.
Visual Artistry
Watching Disko’s video made me realise that I need to watch more music videos, but I am afraid that none will match up to this one. The bar is set so high any other music video I watch has to match up to this, sorry not sorry.
Starting with the costumes, each of the cast’s outfits felt like it was tailor-made for their personality and role in the story. Afrocentric yet modern. From hues of blue that give you room to take in the artistry to shades of green and yellow that illuminate the room. It was all a lot yet not too much. The cowrie shells on the bride’s dress did it for me. Her corset? Snatched. It reminded me so much of the West African gowns.
The choreography was another highlight. Kodong Klan’s signature “kaza” move made an appearance and the added notes with the colonial stamp style on each artist’s appearance were such a concept.
The whole cast was a vibe and everyone delivered. Okello Max came bearing gifts and the vocals, leaving the ladies stunned as usual and Coster Ojwang’ in classic Coster style brought the chill, akabaki akipaka wahenga mafuta mgongoni or whatever it is they say about wahenga. Mr After Party AKA Bensoul, put the after in afterparty, complete with baddies and immense vibes from Onyach and Ywaya of Watendawili. Mordecai Dex came in with the champagne showers and a hen adorned with a necklace?? Along with Charisma, energetic Charisma. And then everyone Kaza’d. The chemistry was effortless and the symphony unmatched.
Besides the costumes and choreography, the lighting was impeccable. You could tell that the video was delicately made, with each set bathed with a palette that complemented it. The setting was the cherry on top.
Storytelling in Music
The storytelling goes beyond the costumes, dances and lighting. Disko tells a story you feel. From the wedding scene to the afterparty chaos, the video captures joy, humour and tension with perfect timing. Interactions between characters, subtle facial expressions and natural chemistry reflect everything Kodong’ Klan stands for. The visual artistry of the video warrants replay. Props to everyone involved.
Spotting a few familiar faces in the video made me smile wider. Every element of the video works together and clearly, no detail was too small to be considered. The video does not just complement the song; it redefines it.
The rolling credits gave a personal touch to the song, reminding us that this masterpiece was made possible by collaborative effort. Exactly what it means for Kodong’ Klan. From fashion to videography, this Kenyan Afro Pop masterpiece sets a new standard for music videos.
Let me add that my absolute favourite part of the video was the babe at the afterparty jumping on Bensoul before being grabbed away by the bouncer, because I would do the same, to be very honest.
If you haven’t watched it yet, toka twende disko, ama utachelewa upate tushalewa (watch it to get it). I guarantee you the best 4 minutes and 27 seconds of your life.
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the discussion