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Fela's London Scene
World · 1971

Fela's London Scene

Fela's early Afrobeat, recorded in London, pulses with a raw, defiant energy. Extended grooves, fiery horns, and political commentary define its hypnotic sound.

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Fela's London Scene" is a potent snapshot of Afrobeat in its nascent, electrifying form, captured during a pivotal period for Fela Kuti. This album pulsates with a raw, unpolished energy, distinct from the more refined sound of his later Nigeria-recorded work. It's an immersive experience, built on the bedrock of extended, hypnotic grooves where interlocking basslines, intricate percussion, and a driving drumbeat create an irresistible rhythmic foundation. Over this, the brass section unleashes fiery, often call-and-response melodies and solos, while Fela's distinctive baritone delivers his socially conscious and politically charged lyrics, often in a compelling spoken-word style.

Moments Worth Listening For
The way the interlocking guitar and bass lines establish an irresistible groove within the first minute of "Who Is Civilian?".
The explosive, call-and-response horn section breakdown in "J'Ehin-J'Ehin" that builds to a frenetic peak.
Fela's extended, impassioned spoken-word delivery and the subsequent vocal harmonies on "Egbe Mi O (Carry Me I Go)".
The intricate drum and percussion solo that emerges around the mid-point of "Why Black Man Dey Suffer".
Reviews

How does Fela's London Scene sound next to the rest of Fela Kuti's catalogue?

Baritone+4.0σ

The vocals lean far further into baritone than the rest of the catalogue.

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