Customer Reviews

African Party

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Putumayo's "African Party" is a fitting celebration of its 15th anniversary as a label bringing the world's music to the armchair traveler. It looks into the future with rising stars such as Chiwoniso from Zimbabwe; it's also a retrospective with a track from Oakland-based Kotoja, the highlife band that inspired Putumayo's creation.

"African Party" opens with a dance remix of Sekouba Bambino's "Famou",a passionate plea on behalf of women. Macire Sylla's "Perenperen" and BoPol Mansiaamina's "Samba samba" have reggae&Brazilian rhythms respectively. "Samba samba",a plea for repentance, sounds like a Rio de Janeiro samba. Oliver Mtukudzi's "Kunze Kwadoka",from the sadly out-of-print "Paivepo",is about a grandmother urging her granddaughter to be careful with her boyfriend. Ivory Coast's Les Go contributes a jazzy track. Mapumba's "Mwafwako" is an anthemic ode to his family (he grew up with eight siblings). Kotoja's dancing song about dance "Vami Duwe" is from their out-of-print "Super Sawale Collection." Chiwoniso's "Nguva Yekufara" has bubbly thumb piano; she has a strong,soulful voice. Her album, "Rebel Woman",will be released this summer. Louis Mhlanga's "Rhumba all the way" is a joyous song about strengthening Africa. Bonga's sunny song "Mulemba Xangola" shows why he often collaborates with Brazilian musicians.

"African Party" is a joyous compilation. It's cheery music. The songs meld effortlessly into each other. It's great music that's also doing great good;a portion of the proceeds will be donated to HOPEHIV in supporting African communities and children affected by HIV/AIDS. Music brings healing.

This is a very pleasant, bouncy, melodic collection of modern African pop, mostly recorded during this decade (2000-2008). Some new bands, but mostly the same lovely sound that fans of the style will enjoy. Perfect for putting on a party to keep the mood happy and bright. (DJ Joe Sixpack, Slipcue music guide)

The CD was in excellent condition and I received it in about four days!!! I couldn't have asked for a better amazon experience :)