Norberto De Nöah – Böhöbé Spirits Müsic (Canela En Surco – Urpa i Musell, 2024)
The groundbreaking Böhöbé Spirits Müsic, originally released in 1988 by Equatoguinean artist Norberto de Nöah, has finally been reissued jointly by Canela en Surco and Urpa i Musell. This reissue brings back a landmark album that fused traditional Bubi music with modern electronic elements, offering a fresh perspective on Central African music during a time of growing global interest. The Bubi are an indigenous ethnic group of Central Africa who primarily live on Bioko Island (formerly Fernando Po) in Equatorial Guinea.
Norberto de Nöah, a native of Bioko, moved to Madrid in the early 1980s and quickly became a key figure in the city’s cultural renaissance. Immersing himself in both dramatic arts and music, he formed the band Nohkis, which released Spain’s first African music record in 1985. After the band’s dissolution, Norberto launched a solo career, releasing Böhöbé Spirits Müsic under his own label, Kilimandjaro Productions.
The album stands out for its innovative mix of ceremonial Bubi melodies with funk, R&B, and African-Caribbean rhythms, all crafted with cutting-edge instruments at the time like the Yamaha RX-5 drum machine and Roland D-50 synthesizer. Norberto played every instrument on the record, highlighting both his musical versatility and his dedication to preserving and modernizing his cultural heritage.
Described by Equatoguinean musician Baron Ya Búk-Lu as “the perfect embodiment of 1980s Equatoguinean Afropop,” the album offers an exuberant exploration of Bubi traditions while pushing boundaries, breaking cultural stereotypes, and influencing a generation of musicians in Spain and beyond.
Though Norberto’s later musical ventures faded with time, his contributions as a DJ and promoter in Madrid’s nightlife kept his legacy alive. Now, with this reissue, his pioneering work can reclaim its place in history, offering listeners a chance to experience the rich collection of songs that defined a pivotal moment in African and Spanish music.
The album is available as a limited edition of 500 albums on vinyl with Bandcamp download code included. It features the original artwork with a new 14 pages insert and poster. Notes by Ramón Godes, Gabriella Nuru and Baron Ya Búk-Lu.
Music digitalization, mastering, and lacquer: Kassian Troyer, Dubplates & Mastering.
Artwork by Studiopol.
Buy Böhöbé Spirits Müsic.
Author: Madison Quinn
