Legendary band formed in 1956 by the equally legendary Franco. The band's initial style was acoustic rumba-influenced material, but they grew into a big band by the '60s and were that decade's most popular, and probably best, band. Towards the '80s, their sound became more disco-influenced, and they toured Europe widely. The band became something of a training ground for the cream of Zairean musicians, with Franco remaining as leader until his rather sudden death in 1989. After a year's mourning, the group embarked on another European tour, carrying on the tradition the band had established for itself over the years quite competently. ~ Steve Huey, Rovi