Analogue Africa V.A. : Angola Soundtrack (AN,1965-1978,re.2010)****'
There has not been too many reissues of Angolan music. Apparently there seems to have been one period in particular which had its unique sound. The shortlived Buddha series on Angola showed something of them, something the Analog Africa label wanted to dig out further with some adventurous research in the country. This way this compilation not only is a great compilation again with a perfect choice, the label continues to make from it an adventure story of some historical importance. Two record companies have been responsible for its publication at the time, Fadiang (Fábrica de Discos Angolano) and Valentim de Carvalho. Neigbour Congo had been responsible for the import of Cuban music and the use of electric guitars, Angolan musicians went far deeper into the Cuban rhythms itself, especially merengue and new combinations of styles. Other rhythms include the to me unknown styles of Rebita, Kazukuta and Semba, some of which were incorporations of traditional rhythms from the Luanda’s islands. The songs and instrumentals and musical themes are most often led by electric guitar, accompanied by a second more rhythm-like guitar. This guitar led element is difficult to describe but I can imagine it would give these players some status and recognition, the rest of the band are able to play their equal part. Other rhythms are provided by polyphonically layered elements like hand shaking rhythms and bottle rhythms, conga-like rhythms and bass. Rarely we hear a brass element. A great surprise is the last song by Africa Show which is a more psychedelic song. It is a in a relaxed rhythm where an organ leads the track mostly, followed by the guitars, vocals and rhythms. The tracks are professionally recorded and so are the players. Another winner from this great label.
