- with Brian Eno
Edikanfo's "African Super Band: The Pace Setters" LP, featuring Brian Eno, melds traditional African rhythms with avant-garde brilliance. Released on 12" vinyl, it's a sonic journey blending Eno's experimental touch with Edikanfo's rhythmic prowess. The album transcends genres, creating a unique musical landscape that resonates with both African heritage and global innovation.
Edikanfo's "The Pace Setters": A Fusion of Ghanaian Highlife and Western Influences In the vibrant music scene of early 1980s Ghana, Edikanfo, an eight-piece band, emerged as a powerful force with their debut album, "The Pace Setters." Produced by the renowned Brian Eno, known for his work with artists like David Bowie and Talking Heads, the album became a groundbreaking fusion of Ghanaian highlife music and Western influences.
Historical Context
Ghana in the early 1980s was undergoing a period of political and social change. The country had recently experienced a coup d'état, and the music scene reflected the turbulent atmosphere. However, it was also a time of creative exploration, with musicians blending traditional Ghanaian rhythms with modern sounds.
Musical Exploration
Edikanfo, led by the charismatic Gilbert Amartey, was at the forefront of this musical exploration. Their music was deeply rooted in Ghanaian highlife, a genre characterized by its infectious rhythms, bright horns, and vibrant vocals. However, they also incorporated elements of funk, Afrobeat, and even hints of disco, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Music Genre
"The Pace Setters" defies easy categorization. It is a rich tapestry of genres, blending highlife with elements of funk, Afrobeat, disco, and even hints of experimental music. The album's opener, "Nka Bom," is a prime example, with its driving beat, catchy horns, and soaring vocals.
Production Team
Brian Eno's involvement in the project was a testament to the band's talent and potential. Eno, who had been exploring African music and collaborating with artists like Talking Heads, was drawn to Edikanfo's innovative sound. He brought his unique production style to the album, enhancing the band's raw energy with subtle electronic touches and experimental soundscapes.
Recording Studio
"The Pace Setters" was recorded at Studio One in Accra, a legendary recording studio that had produced some of Ghana's most iconic music. The studio's warm acoustics and vintage equipment contributed to the album's rich and authentic sound.
Controversies
While "The Pace Setters" was a critical and commercial success in Ghana, it faced challenges reaching a wider audience due to the political instability in the country and the limited resources available for international distribution. The album's fusion of genres also sparked debate among purists of highlife music, who felt it deviated too far from the genre's traditional roots.
Music Genre: Afro Acid Jazz World Music |
Album Production Information: Produced by Brian Eno, Faisal Helwani Brian Eno The 1970s and 1980s marked a transformative period in the world of music, with experimentation and innovation at the forefront of artistic endeavors. One name that stands out prominently during this era is Brian Eno, a multifaceted musician, producer, and visionary who left an indelible mark on the European music scene. The Ambient Pioneer: Brian Eno, born in Woodbridge, Suffolk, in 1948, began his musical journey as a member of the glam rock band Roxy Music . However, it was his departure from the band in the early 1970s that allowed him to fully embrace his avant-garde inclinations. Eno's ambient music, characterized by atmospheric soundscapes and minimalistic compositions, became synonymous with the era.
Eno's solo albums during the 1970s, such as "Music for Airports" (1978) and "Another Green World" (1975), exemplified his ability to create immersive sonic environments. His work in ambient music not only reflected the cultural and technological shifts of the time but also laid the foundation for an entirely new genre that would continue to influence artists for decades to come. Collaborations with Iconic Bands: Apart from his solo ventures, Brian Eno's collaborative efforts with some of the most iconic bands of the era solidified his reputation as a musical innovator. Eno's influence was particularly evident in his collaboration with the German electronic band Kraftwerk, where his production skills enhanced their groundbreaking albums, including "Autobahn" (1974) and "Radio-Activity" (1975). Eno's collaboration with David Bowie in the late 1970s produced a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "Low" (1977), "Heroes" (1977), and "Lodger" (1979). Eno's ambient textures and electronic experimentation played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of these albums, contributing to Bowie's reinvention and the broader evolution of popular music. Production Wizardry: Brian Eno's prowess as a producer extended beyond his collaborations with Bowie and Kraftwerk. His work with Talking Heads on the landmark album "Remain in Light" (1980) showcased his ability to blend diverse musical elements, incorporating African polyrhythms and avant-garde sensibilities. This collaboration marked a turning point for Talking Heads, propelling them into uncharted musical territories. Additionally, Eno's production work with U2 in the 1980s , particularly on "The Unforgettable Fire" (1984) and "The Joshua Tree" (1987), played a crucial role in shaping the band's sonic identity. His innovative production techniques and sonic landscapes elevated U2's sound to new heights, contributing to their global success. Sound and recording engineers: Brian Eno, Jacob Serdro, Sami Helwani Recorded at Studio One, Napoleon Club, Osu, Accra, Ghana Album cover design George Afriye-Siaw, UST, Kumasi. |
Record Label & Catalognr: Editions EG 2302 113 (2302113) |
Album Packaging: Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design. |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
Year & Country: 1981 Made in Holland |
Band Members and Musicians on: Edikanfo African Super Band The Pace Setters |
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Complete Track Listing of: Edikanfo African Super Band The Pace Setters |
The Song/tracks on "Edikanfo African Super Band The Pace Setters" are:
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Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Edikanfo African Super Band The Pace Setters |
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| Photo of Album's Inner Cover |
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Close-up Photo of Record Label
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ). |