Niwel Tsumbu is a virtuosic Congolese-born, Ireland-based guitarist. He has created a unique and exhilarating style drawing on influences as diverse as jazz, classical, rock, folk and rhumba. Niwel grew up on the rhythms of Congolese Soukous music and Rhumba, studying theory and improvisation with Crispin Ngoyi in Kinshasa. Since moving to Ireland in 2004, he has become a hugely in-demand performing artist, and is currently touring the world as a member of the Rhiannon Giddens band. His debut solo recording, Milimo draws on sources from Africa, Europe, and the Americas, forging a new African Classical tradition equally influenced by J.S. Bach, Paco de Lucia, Luambo Makiadi and Charlie Parker. Having developed his own unique, highly-virtuosic approach to the guitar, Milimo represents a culmination of many years of work.

As a regular contributor to Celebrating Sanctuary's programme we are delighted to welcome Niwel back as part of his album launch.