Edikanfo - African Super Band The Pace Setters 12" Vinyl Album

- with Brian Eno

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.