Need something to lift your spirits? Then look no further than Africa Negra’s Antologia Vol. 1 compilation on Bongo Joe Records.
Founded in São Tomé and Príncipe, a small island nation to the west of Gabon, during the early 1970s by friends Horacio and guitarist Emidio Pontes, África Negra created slinky and addictive tunes that were bright, hot and insanely danceable.
This album is packed with (mostly) long tracks that course with snappy beats, smooth vocals and playful guitars that bounce with springy reverb. With plenty of horns and entrancing rhythms, the songs here often reveal the band’s deep rumba influences. The meandering guitar lines can also bring to mind Peruvian chichas and Angolan rebita music, too.
Part of Africa Negra’s sound can be traced back to Portuguese ballroom dance tunes, which shows that Portugal’s influence on their former island territory still holds strong. The band’s entire vibe, with its kaleidoscopic blend of inspirations, is certainly unique and always deliciously entertaining.
Just check out the swinging “San Tomé Plôdozu” to get a sense of just how joyful and warm this band’s music can be. If you’re not at the very least tapping your foot by the two-minute mark, then you might require immediate medical attention.
For a blissfully fun soundtrack for your next summer block party or backyard BBQ give this record a try. It’s the sunniest vibe you’ll find on four sides of vinyl this side of Essiebons Special.
Click here to get your copy from Bongo Joe today.
-KH
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