CD Review: Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars' 'Libation'

Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars
Libation
Cumbancha

Sierra Leone's ambassadors for everything good and happy bring us another exciting and catchy Afro-pop release. Libation is a celebration of life with twelve tracks of deliciousness. The reggae-tinged, "Can't Make Me Lonely," "It's So Sorry," and the incredibly catchy "Treat You Right." Other tracks take on a more Congolese rhythm pattern, such as "Gbaenyama," "Ghana Baby," "Maria," "Money No Do," and "Min Do Sin Tay." "Manjalagi" possesses a cumbia-type beat with African lyrics and a steady, danceable rhythm that is unforgettable. The upbeat, contemporary, and Afro-beat melodies are outstanding without any deficiencies. The sweet riffs and glorious, rippling guitar chords signify a pan-African presence that draws upon Spanish, Portuguese, and Caribbean influences. Overall, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars mark a new year with their best album to date. This music is best served with some chilled palm wine! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars' 'Radio Salone'

Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars
Radio Salone
Cumbancha

Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars are an incredible world music and afro-beat group of musicians that continue to astound listeners with each release. The newest release, Radio Salone, contains a host of catchy, groovy, and funk-laden songs with some afro-latin percussion and good 'ol African funk. There are sixteen tracks and loads of fun for the entire family. The gritty grooves and danceable hooks are ripe with African flavors and musical styles. The percussion and vocals are top-notch with little in the way of creative imperfections. The highly-percussive instrumentation, contemporary grooves, and soulful funk with indigenous melodies and styles makes Radio Salone a hit with all who listen to it. Fans of afro-beat, West African pop music, dance music, and innovative afro-pop will love Radio Salone. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Sierre Leone's Refugee All Stars

Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars

Rise & Shine

Cumbancha

Formed out of war and civil unrest, Sierre Leone's Refugee All Stars bring light and life to Africa and the rest of the world. The drum-beats, reggae-inspired grooves, and blaring brass convey the message of hope, while shadowing despair and depravity. The Afro-beat rhythms might be an ode to Fela Kuti and other West African bands from the 1960's to the present. At any rate, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars poignantly coined the album title Rise & Shine to accurately summarize the musical and social development of the group over the past few years. The music is richly textured with loads of instrumentation and cool riffs. A great collective of musicians born out of exile refuse to succumb to the power of societal defeatism, and instead, rise to the occasion by playing personally satisfying music. Find yourself a hammock under a palm tree, sip some palm wine, and play Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars this summer! ~ Matthew Forss