África Negra – Antologia Vol. 1 (Bongo Joe Records, 2022)
The Bongo Joe Records label has been focusing on the music of Sao Tome and Principe, a small island nation in Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, west of Gabon. The islands are a melting with a diverse population that includes laborers attracted by the cocoa and coffee plantations. Similarly, the islands are an international musical meeting place where Sao Tomean traditional rhythms are combined with influences from Portuguese-speaking countries like Cape Verde and Angola, the Congo and elsewhere.
One of the leading bands in the 1970s and 1980s was África Negra. Although this group varied in size throughout the years, their joyful Pan-African fusion sound was characterized by creative electric guitar lines featuring captivating dual guitar dialogue. The guitar style was inspired by the great players from the Congo. África Negra’s influences included São Tomé rumba, Congolese soukous, and elements of Ghanaian highlife.
The anthology, compiled by French DJ Tom B, is an extensive look at África Negra’s 50-year discography. Even though the band took a long break, it is still active now and planning select concert dates in Europe this summer.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.