Friday, October 8, 2010

CD Review: Tiken Jah Fakoly's 'African Revolution'


African Revolution
Barclay

A musical 'revolution' is coming out of Africa and Tiken Jah Fakoly is its leader. An Ivory Coast-native, Tiken primarily sings about politics, war, and social change. The songs are sung in French and English. The music is similar in sound to contemporaries Carlou D or Toussaint, whom also have origins in West Africa. This is modern music with a modern beat. The instrumental repertoire is extensive, and includes bass, drums, guitars, ngoni, balafon, kora, soukou, tama, yabara, banjo, ukulele, assorted percussion, and electronic elements. The final product is an ear-friendly collection of songs drawing from reggae, cool jazz, pop/rock, and French music. The swaying rhythms, hard-hitting lyrics, engaging sounds, and sincere vocals make African Revolution one of the best releases of the year! Head to the Ivory Coast for soul-stirring, musical pleasure...or your nearest music store for African Revolution. ~ Matthew Forss

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