DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 25 -- LET me begin with a confession that may cost me some friends at the next Msondo Ngoma show: Congolese musicians are not better than ours. They are simply better at acting as if they are.

Watch a Congolese band walk onto a stage.

The lead singer arrives as though the hall was built for him, and the audience has been waiting since independence.

The guitarist holds his instrument like a family heirloom. The dancers move as if their hips have signed an exclusive contract with the rhythm.

Even the man carrying the speakers walks with a certain swagger.

Before a single note is played, the crowd has already concluded: These people are serious.

Now watch some of our muziki wa dansi bands arrive.

The singer checks ...