Orchestre Moto is a New York-based band with strong Kinshasa roots, dedicated to showcasing the Congolese sound. The band is led by guitarist and arranger Solo De Kanto, originally from Bandundu Province in the DRC, whose career includes tenures with legends such as Adolphe Dominguez, Wenge Tonya Tonya, Chancelier Desi Mbwese, and Planète Elegance.

Orchestre Moto was co-founded by Julian Apter shortly after he began guitar lessons with De Kanto. The two first connected in Nkumu Katalay’s Lifelong Project Band, where Julian played rhythm guitar for five years. He has experience playing with heavyweights Loboko Music, Huit Kilos, Ngouma Lokito, Chella Mputu, Wawali Bonane, Samba Mapangala, Rumba DB, and Dominic James.

Since forming, Orchestre Moto has performed at venues including the Sultan Room, the Shrine, Bunna Cafe’s Summer Music Series, Williamsburg Music Center, the Bee Sanctuary in Flatbush, and the International African Arts Festival. The group is currently working on its debut album.