Album: The Malawi Mouse Boys, He is #1 (Irl)

A convenient back-story for their record label is a brutal reality to this young Malawian band whose name derives from the fact they sell mouse kebabs to passers-by in order not to starve to death themselves.

But we mustn't let such matters affect our judgement in regard to their music which, as it happens, is a thrilling mix of raw vocal harmonies, rattling homemade guitars and handclaps. The hope and optimism exuding from every note breaks your heart.