On first impressions, this is just another Fela Kuti compilation, albeit an extensive one. Dig a little deeper, though, and spend a bit more time with the music and, like any good art retrospective, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Badu’s own sensibilities shine through with her penchant...
Tag Archives: Afro-Funk
Last time we met Ibibio Sound Machine it was a little more than a year ago. They were “still” one of the most interesting bands enriching the London music scene. 12 months or so later, we find them as a “global music phenomenon”, with an exciting new album, new label...
It’s always interesting when musicians confront themselves with art forms that are not music. That’s what our favourite “afro-fusionist” K.O.G., frontman of K.O.G & the Zongo Brigade, has recently done adapting and reciting one of his new songs titled “Money”. On Friday, K.O.G. & the Zongo Brigade will visit London and surely turn Pop...
Known for being the man behind the beat in afrobeat, Tony Allen is considered the pioneer and professor of Nigerian drumming. The maestro of polyrhythms, he can sound like five different drummers playing in unison without even breaking a sweat, “after 45 minutes, I’m just warming up!” Allen drummed with...
Fully immerse yourself in everything funky and groovy that Africa has to offer. For one night, London will move its hips to some of the best Afro-vibes thanks to two of the most sought-after and refined DJ-sets you can enjoy. It’s no exaggeration to say that Samy Ben Redjeb (Analog...
Fans of contemporary music from the African continent have been blessed in 2017 with releases from Zimbabwe’s Mokoomba and Mali’s Tamikrest and Songhoy Blues – illustrating that there’s a wealth of new artists and contemporary sounds emanating from the continent. Jupiter & Okwess from the Congo, cement this reputation by...
Much like a charming village fete with a complimentary cleansing mud bath, Ealing Jazz Festival provided both entertainment and healing from the music and comedy of sliding from one stage to another. Unfortunately for the locals, this was the second week that the Walpole celebrations had been washed out. However,...
There are musicians who follow the traditional styles of their country and those who create brand new ones, assembling together and evolving what their country has to offer. One of the best examples of the latter (not too densely populated) category is Jupiter Bokondji, founder and band leader of Jupiter...
Three months ago, we had the pleasure and thrill to host them on the Epic Dalston stage. Having known them and enjoyed their music, it’s almost inevitable to recommend anyone to attend their gigs. So, don’t make any plans for the 4th of August, you should even postpone your holidays...
Originally formed in 1966 in the coastal town of Cotonou, Orchestre Poly Rythmo became one of Benin’s finest exports and, consequently, a flagbearer for African music. With their exuberant brand of afro-funk and party fuelled soukous, their sound and their on-stage energy defy their advancing years. Thanks in no small...