The Kings of Benin Urban Groove 1972-80

After the success of  previous West African  compilations including the Ghana Soundz volumes 1&2 and the Afro-Baby compilation Soundway continues to unleash more rare and un-available Afro music. Compiled by label boss and DJ Miles Cleret, the selection spans the most productive period in the Benin based band, T.P Orchestre’ s history throughout the 70’s.From the Republic of Benin, West Africa, The Orchestre Poly-Rythmo are a household name in their home country having released over 100 LPs and 50 singles.This collection reflects their many poly-rhythmic moods. A mixture of hard Afro-funk, driving Afro-beat and deep Afro-Latin and Cuban grooves all with a unique flavour that ruled the dance-floors of 70’s urban Benin.
Being such a small country, Benin has had little in the way of musical exposure over the years and many people don’t even know where it is, sandwiched alongside Togo between Ghana and Nigeria. The band were always true to their name keeping a variety of diverse poly-rhythmic musical styles in their repertoire and are still play today nearly 40 years after their formation.

“Hot afro licks with a magical and hypnotic quality”
MOJO

“Now is the time to savour in full the many delights of these kings of Benin”
BEAT (USA)

BARCODE: 827565009220

Tracklist:

1. Aihe Ni Kpe we
2. Les Djos
3. Gendamou Na Wili We Gnannin
4. Mi Si Ba To
5. Avoun Doupou Me Douga
6. Kokoriko
7. Ne Te Faches Pas
8. Kou Tche Kpo So O
9. Gbeto Vivi
10. Agnon Djidjo
11. Medida
12. Angelina II