Nigeria Afrobeat Special is the fourth addition to the Nigeria Special series, a project initiated by Miles Cleret, owner of the Soundway Record label back in 2004.
Focusing on the big band sound dominated by wailing saxophones, brass solos and relentless poly-rhythmic grooves, Nigeria Afrobeat Special delivers a no-nonsense collection of tracks that (bar one) have NEVER been re-issued outside of Nigeria.
It was Fela Kuti and his musical and political ideals that formed the core of afrobeat's message. Fela's highly sought after version of 'Who're you' lends this set it's lead. Originally released on 7" in 1971, It would later be re-recorded at Abbey Road for his album Fela's London Scene and here is re-issued for the first time ever
The collection features Fela's rival and fellow afrobeat veteran Orlando Julius, represented by the track 'Afro?Blues' ? amazing that this has previously managed to escape re-issue. Also featured are tracks by big names on the Nigerian scene ? Eric Akaeze, Bongos Ikwue & Segun Bucknor as well as a Victor Uwaifo produced cut by previously unknown artist Andrew "Madman" Jaga. The album also features a cut featuring Pax Nicholas, a singer whose album Na Teef Know De Road Of Teef has recently been made available after 30 years.
Cleret's ambition to distinguish the blossoming music scenes of 1970's Nigeria has lent to an indispensable series of CD and LP compilations documenting the influence of western blues, rock and disco amongst artists and musicians versed in the local musical styles of highlife and juju.
- The fourth addition to the Nigeria Special series focusing on Fela Kuti's impact on Nigerian music
- CD digipack with 16 page booklet with rare artist photos and stories behind the music
- Triple LP featuring five bonus tracks not available on the CD.
PRESS QUOTES:
"If there was a best record label accolade for 2009, Soundway would be the runaway winners" Charlie Gillett BBC Radio 3
"An amazing label producing world music you can dance to without the need to stroke your chin" ? Mark Lamarr, BBC Radio 2