CD Review: Various Artists' 'Sembeh Ma Fa Fe Revisits Volume'

Various Artists
Sembeh Ma Fa Fe Revisits Volume
Stronghold Sound

The folks at the San Francisco-based Afrobeat label, Stronghold Sound, brings us a new album dedicated to the music from Guinea, Africa. This new compilation contains the likes of Bom Sone, Important, Tiralleur, Sista Lessa, Ruphert, Balbore, Bongo, Symbole, Prince II Saen, Neuf Six, Besto Besto, and Kati. The album title, which means 'strong sound coming' is appropriately-titled without a doubt. The new sound is rather modern with equal doses of hip hop, reggae, and R&B throughout. The rhythmic diversity is steeped in West African history combined with urban roots. The album is recorded and produced by label founder, Ahmed Khouja. The sixteen tracks are adventurous, lively, and powerful with elements of electronica, dub, funk, and rock. Guinea music fans unite with Stronghold Sound's latest release. ~ Matthew Forss