Analog Africa No. 5 – Legends of Benin [coll] – [Analog Africa]

Cousin Mary   11/21/2009   CD, International

German Samy Ben Redjeb scoured African markets for these gems recorded by musicians in Benin between 1969 and 1981 and released them on his label “Analog Africa”. He also wrote the excellent notes in the accompanying booklet that tells a lot about the musicians and about how he found their music.

Wonderful African music with great instrumentals, vocals (some French), and driving beats. One hears influences of Latin, funk, reggae, and even an accordion (Track 2) reminiscent of Zydeco.

Note: Benin (I found 3 pronunciations: buh-NIN or be-neen or Bay-nahn?) is in West Africa between Togo and Nigeria.

PGM: Track 14 begins with a song that is about 7 minutes long, then silence, then another song that begins at the 9-minute mark (about 4 minutes remaining).

Highly recommended!