Bleep

African Electronic Music 1975 - 1982

Multi-disciplinary artist Francis Bebey was born in Cameroon and studied music in Paris in the 1950s. These recordings were made later in his life, as he used Western forms to make African music more approachable for a foreign audience. From the deep groove of 'Wuma Te' to the swagger-laden guitar of 'Divorce Pygmée', these songs are rooted in popular styles yet borne out of a tradition unfamiliar to many. Bebey's spoken utterances and unpolished singing style lend even more intrigue to the proceedings, making this an utterly unmissable piece of work.

Psychedelic Sanza

Born Bad Records present Psychedelic Sanza 1982-1984, a thrilling collection of material from Cameroonian artist Francis Bebey. A follow-up to African Electronic Music 1975 - 1982, this release focuses on music built around the sansa, a traditional African 'thump piano'. Combining his own global interests and electronic pursuits with the traditional sound of the sansa, he fashions an irresistible body of work for full immersion. 'Sanza Tristesse', with its lilting tempo and creaking vocals, could fit in any 80s disco set, while 'Forest Nativity' is an earthy nature walk. This collection is not to be missed.