West African Shock Waves

The last few years their has been a major resurgence in African funk and Afrobeat releases. Most of the releases have centered around bringing together the more recently re-discovered lost gems from the African region that had previously been forgotten about for several decades. It's hard for me to say because I wasn't around during the original release of this material, however their could be an argument made that a good portion of this music is getting more praise now than it ever did. I suppose that it's more important that the music finally receives it's much overdue appreciation, than never at all.

The new compilation from Analog Africa titled "Afro-Beat Airways: West African Shock Waves Ghana & Togo 1972-79" is the latest release that pays tribute to the lost funky sounds from Africa's past. This record, as the titled suggests, focuses on the Afrobeat sounds that were being generated from the African countries of Ghana and Togo during the seventies. What stands out the most about this particular compilation, besides the amazing music, is the information, the interviews, and the archived photos that Analog Africa founder Samy Ben Redjeb collected while putting together this brilliant compilation. The evidence of these efforts can be found on the CD version of this compilation which comes with a 44 page booklet documenting all of his findings and interviews. The collection of music that makes up the compilation is also incredible, featuring some of the region's greatest artist like Ebo Taylor, Apagya Show Band, African Brothers Band, Marijata, Uppers International, and K.Frimpong & His Cubano Fiestas among many others. Not only has Analog Africa put together another must-own compilation, they have put together a well-crafted 73 minute audio history lesson based around some of Africa's most funkiest and lost music. Enjoy!

K. Frimpong & His Cubano Fiestas - Me Yee Owu Den