Following Strut Records 2001 three-CD compilation of Nigerian music, Lagos Jump delves a little deeper into the underground of the music of post-independence Nigeria.
The rest of Strut Records output reveals their crème-de-la-crème music credentials with compilations of Italo Disco and Disco Not Disco ‘post punk, electro and leftfield disco classics 1974-1986.’
The 16 tracks on Lagos Jump are the music of a reborn country celebrating its independent identity, but also struggling with rife political corruption and violent oppression after military coups. A mix of musical styles are represented, original afrobeat, West Africa’s own distinctive invention highlife (jazzy horns and multiple-guitars) and Ify Jerry Crusade’s Everybody Like’s Something good sounds like pure Hendrix.
The music on this CD is overshadowed by the king of Nigerian music, the great Fela Kuti, pioneer of afrobeat, political activist, founder of an independent republic/commune/recording studio in Lagos, husband of 27-wives, victim of police brutality, attempted presidential candidate and AIDS fatality. One of Fela’s bands was called Africa 70, and the Nigeria 70 title of this series of compilations is a clear link. Despite this, there is no Fela Kuti on this album and none of the tracks can live up to his achievements. To here the best Nigerian music ever, just lend your ears to Fela’s Sorrow, Tears and Blood and marvel at a track that makes you want to dance and cry at the same time.
Still the artists on Lagos Jump have voices of depth, soulful rhythms and funky horns. Their music evokes the heat of the African sun, and the relaxed happiness, as well as the suffering that it has brought to its people.
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