- 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 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 Information: 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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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 photos of : Edikanfo African Super Band The Pace Setters |
Photo of Front Cover |
Photo of Album's Back Cover |
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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 ). |