Analog Africa (label)
27 November 2015 (released)
01 December 2015
I eagerly await every release of Samy Ben Redjeb’s undiscovered gems from African vaults and he hasn’t let me down yet.
For this release he has trawled the vaults of Senegal’s old studios as well as getting some from Adamantios Kafetzis from Teranga Beat.
As always the music is vibrant, multi-toned and completely captivating. The mix of different beats and rhythms shows off the cultural melting pot fusing Mbalax, Cuban Son Montuno, funk and Mandingue as well as some sublime touches of jazz (brought by American sailors in the ‘50’s).
The sense of Cuban influence is strong and the sheer danceability is exceptional – on a track like ‘Massani Cice’ by the Orchestre Laye Thiam it is impossible not to groove with the music and if a partner is available the sinuous rhythm will have you up and dancing from the off.
Opening track ‘Mariama’ from Fangool is a wonderful way to start the album, combining soft Afro-beat with ska like guitar and organ whil Fangool himself wails a heartfelt song. That is followed by ‘Africa’ by Orchestre G.M.I. – a much harder beat and furious rhythms that bring early Fela to mind.
‘Thiely’ from Orchestre Bawobab brings in the Cuban influence and these three tracks probably sum up the album.
Every track has a unique charm and the sense of the night and dancing in the dark pervades all through. Yet another wonderful Analog Africa release.
