St. Michael

It appears that Augustine was not the only saint with a musical career: here's St. Michael And His Oboshi International. I have no information whatsoever about this band, so if anybody has, please step up.
'Oboshi' is probably the town Obosi in Anambra State. Anyway, i just like the eccentric music, i'm sure you will enjoy it too.

St. Michael And His Oboshi International - Chukwu-di

Richard Ugiagbe

One of the fascinating features in African music is that each ethnic group has it's own musical preferences. This is very much true of Nigerian Highlife: even if you don't understand the language, you can hear the difference between Ibo and Niger-delta highlife. The most eccentric form of highlife is for me Edo (or Bini) highlife. Of course, it's most famous representative Victor Uwaifo is very much a mainstream musician, but listen to this Ricard Ugiagbe recording: really something else.
When i first heard it, i was really confused: where is this music going? But like all good music, it gets under your skin and stays there.
And it's a peculiar language too: what about a track called 'Vbenogawemwinghaye'?





Richard Ugiagbe - Ihomwan

Opambuo Internationals

In reaction to my last post, Joseph asked me to upload a track by Opambuo Internationals, used in a YouTube clip. Unfortunately i don't have the track, 'wompe masem', so if anyone can help us... That's the frustration you get by collecting this music: i do have 8 albums, but who knows how many more great music is totally unavailable.
Instead i'll just post another fine song by the 'Man With The Golden Voice', from their first album.
Opambuo Internationals - 07 - Dee abeba mmra

City Boys

Another great track from one of my favorite bands. Although you first have to get used to the sharp voice of Nana Ampadu's nephew, J.A. Adofo, i'm sure you will agree. This is one of those bands that never let you down: all their albums are good, and some are really great. Instrumentation is subtle, and i especially love the organ. If only i knew what the song is about...Aye...

City Boys - Obi Benya Wo A

Melody Aces - Stars Of West-Africa

Nothing like a cheerful Highlife track to end the year. And Highlife never was so cheerful as in the early sixties. Just gained independence and everything seemed possible. And the music of that era reflects that optimism: listen to this track by the Melody Aces.



Melody Aces - Emase Puro O

Indomitable White Eagles

No Brothers this time, but a couple of fierce feathered friends. Actually, they look quite friendly on this cover, thanks to the straw hats. Nice Nigerian Highlife, a bit repetitive, but never boring. Enjoy.



Indomitable White Eagles - Mr. Simeon Yabrifa Special

John Okpor and his Golden Tones

Judging by the lack of comments to my last post i guess you're ready for something completely different. Ok, it's Highlife, but Nigerian, and a lot more 'modern' than usual. But i find this really a hypnotic track, and have played this album a lot lately. Especially suited for driving, in my opinion, uptempo but relaxing as well.
For more information: check Ubulujaja's Highlife Turntable.




John Okpor And His Golden Tones- Ele Igbameni Utei