CD Review: Elikeh's 'Between 2 Worlds'

Elikeh
Between 2 Worlds
Azalea City Recordings

Between 2 Worlds is a funkified journey into the world of reggae, funk, afro-pop, and blues with heavy African connections, as well as American funk and blues. The opener, "No Vision," contains a little reggae, but flies high with funk beats and English vocals. The reverberating horns and driving rhythms are prevalent on "Know Who You Are," Vieux Farka Toure's guitar hero on "Alonye," as well as "Olesafrica," featuring Ojah Awake. The entire project is upbeat, rich with African nostalgia, and funkadelic beats with driving horns and soukous-like guitar stylings. Anyone with an interest in Afro-funk, afro-jazz, and contemporary African music in general will love their music. This is also an excellent fusion of sort between North American rock and funk with Africa's indigenous rhythms and melodies. The result is an outstanding product of musical achievement. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Edzayawa's 'Projection One'

Edzayawa
Projection One
Soundway

The Ghanaian funk of the 1970's is captured brilliantly on Edzayawa's first and only LP. The newly release CD and LP versions showcase a heady, contemporary mix of funk 'n' roll music with a nice vocal range throughout. The eight long tracks incorporate rhythms and styles from Ghana and Togo, which infuse less rock elements than other regional music. However, Edzayawa knows how to kick in the beats with rousing percussion and groovy bass lines. The psychedelic elements of reverberating B3's and steady, but languid guitar stylings, signify a great range of musical enjoyment. Despite the few tracks, the music is top-notch and a vital release for any funk, Ghana, Nigeria, Togo, and West African guitar fans infatuated with 1970's Africa. Step back in time with our friends, Edzayawa! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Togo's Elikeh

Elikeh

Adje! Adje!

Azalea City

A band of D.C.-area musicians present us with a modern form of groovy, jazzy, and dance-friendly rhythms. Headed by Togolese frontman Massama Dogo, Elikeh celebrates the musical spirit of Africa's Afro-beat giants, such as Orchestra Poly-Rhythmo and Fela Kuti. Though not a literal comparison, Elikeh taps into the same historical energy of Afro-beat bands of long ago. Yet, Elikeh is new, refreshing, and distinct. It draws upon West African, Central African, and French influences. There are ten tracks in all. Each track contains a brief song description in the liner notes. Adje! Adje! is a great release for African music fans and others looking for something accessible and easy to assimilate. ~ Matthew Forss