The Sophisticated Audiophile

November 19, 2011 • 10:59 am 0

El Rego – Benin’s Godfather of Funk

El Rego is a legendary musician from Benin that is getting some much needed attention outside of Benin and Nigeria. Daptone recently released a compilation of his work from the 60s and 70s. It really is a nice entry point for all things El Rego. His music has been on other West African compilations, but this is the first one solely dedicated to him. Get it.

El Rego today. He’s amazed, and touched that people in the West are finally digging what he did over 40 years ago.

The first track on the LP is Feeling You Got.

Filed under: Analog, Audiophile, Blues, Funk, Video, Benin, El Rego

April 22, 2011 • 5:15 am 0

Syl Johnson – Complete Mythology Boxset Review

You can read my review of Syl Johnson’s Complete Mythology Boxset at Stereo Times here.

Filed under: Analog, Funk, Video, Vinyl, Numero Group, R&B, Soul, Syl Johnson

March 20, 2011 • 9:10 am 1

Orlando Julius and The Afro Sounders on VoodooFunk

If you’re a Nigerian over the age of 25, then you probably know who Orlando Julius is. If you don’t, then your parents do. Orlando was and is a big deal in Nigeria and the neighboring countries. While his work is known to fellow West Africans, and diggers into West African music, he’s certainly not a household name globally. I’m glad to see his work get more spotlight. Frank Gossner of VoodooFunk fame is the brainchild behind this release. It’s the best Orlando Julius I’ve ever heard, and believe me, I’ve heard plenty. This was the music our parents played. Go pick this one up. The booklet, pictures and liner notes alone are worth it. Orlando himself wrote it. Forget the CD, get the LP for the full experience.

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