Seun KUTI + Fela’s Egypt 80
One of the legacies of Fela Kuti is Afrobeat, the music of the people. Since his passing, his particular brand of Afrobeat faded a little from the front pages. Femi, one of his better known progenies kept the grooves going but was often criticized for being too far off beat from the original Fela sound. Enters his youngest brother, Seun Kuti with Fela's band Egypt 80 and his debut album.
On many levels, this album is a confirmation of what many people who have watched Seun on stage already know. This young man has been performing as front man for Egypt 80 for a decade. The fact that he waited 10 years to release his debut album is testimony to his maturity. This is a pure, unaltered afrobeat from beginning to end. The fela sound is there, the lyrics are as powerful. The voice is not obviously the same but just as powerful in denouncing the corruption, government’s mismanagement of resources, diseases and the daily suffering of people.
This 7-song-album features the big brass sound, great guitar riffs, powerful background vocals; all that masterfully blended around Seun's voice to create a vibrant listening experience. And although one cannot overlook Fela's influence on this album, it is not possible to ignore the distinctive touch and presence of young Seun.
From the critique of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obassandjo in “Many things” to a cry against malaria in mosquito song, the message is on point. The songs are just a little over 7 minutes in averageNotable tracks tracks are Many things, Na oil, Don't give that shit to me, mosquito song and African problems. Long time Fela producer Martin Meisonnier produced the album, going back and forth between Lagos and Paris.
This release marks without a doubt a new dawn for afrobeat. A new day that shines on a new flag bearer, ready to carry on the legacy of giving a voice to the voiceless and a face to Africa's unsung heroes.
Alain K. SESSI
Africagrooves.com