TRACKLISTING
1 Pole Mama
2 Amilo
3 Boya Ye
4 Mon Coeur Balance
5 Gbebe Mi
6 Segun Adewale
7 Yeme Breoo
8 Awo De Me
This selection of classic Western and Central African dance music which was compiled in 1987 captures a point in time when the term world music was coming into vogue in general and the music of Africa was beginning to make itself felt internationally in particular. It compiles recordings from 1983-1987 released on the early Sterns catalogue and highlights renowned groups and artists such as Somo Somo featuring guitar wizard Mose Se Fan Fan, Tabu Ley and M’bilia Bel from the former Zaire (now Congo), Daouda from the Ivory Coast, Ebenezer Obey and Segun Adewale from Nigeria and two bands from Ghana, the African Brothers and Hi-Life International.
Not only are the songs essential and the performers high-profile, but the selection of genres very judicious. With its shuffling rhythms, guitar lines and sweet harmonies Zairean soukouss is one of the most appealing music you’re likely to hear anywhere, so to hear 3 of its greatest practitioners on one CD is a treat indeed. Juju as performed by Nigerian guitarist King Sunny Ade gained a certain amount of international exposure during the mid 70s. The unique combination of Hawaiian guitar, hushed yet soulful vocals and pulsing traditional rhythms is compelling.
The music is given plenty of breathing space as the two entries here by Ebenezer and Segun cook elegantly for more than 11 and 13 minutes apiece. Hi-Life from Ghana is the original African world music even having a number of non-African devotees in London during the 40’s and 50’s. The two electric guitar hi-life entries are outstanding, blending the older sound with exciting guitar and rhythms. The African Brothers really pull out the stops in their hyper-kinetic Yeme Breoo. All eight songs on Africa Moves exhibit accessibility, depth and hip-gyrating action so the music still sounds great 20 years on. Although not in your face hi-fi the sound is generally very good with good balance and sound clarity. The 2 page liner notes are informative and well-written although perhaps a bit more information would have been welcome. With 65 minutes of variety and unflagging quality, what more could you ask for? Richard Jasiutowicz
