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charly kingson - born in africa - africa seven - vinyl

New Copy

Genre: African

1. Nimele Bolo
2. Makakane Masu
3. Manyaka
4. Born In Africa
5. Nanga 'Boko
6. Reviens-Moi

Repress from this 1978 album by cameroun artist Charly Kingson (cousin of Manu Dibango ) which he recorded in Germany

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The LP opens up with "Nimele Bolo" with its early growling analog synths, big stabby brass and afro rhythms. Add in Charlys vocals and it is easy to see why this track was a highlight of the recent African Airways 04 Funk compilation. Next it is time for smooth ballad, "Makakane Masu" and its smooth jazz overtones. Next "Manyaka" the suspenseful string section, octaving keys and percussive horns drive the wah wah guitar and Charlys brooding song.

The flip side opens up with the rolling bass and swinging brass of lead track "Born In Africa". This track was a single and it's the perfect microcosm of the album elements in one track. It even manages to name check all the big afro musicians of the time. "Nanga Boko" and its big smiles all around for the good time synth-boogie funk. The LP closes with "Reviens-Moi" a pensive ballad about Charly's forlorn love. He wants her back of course.