Tags: African

Review: Matata were formed in Kenya in 1963, laying down their grooves in Nairobi's Brilliant Club before going on to record two albums in London in the early 70s. Both Air Fiesta and Independence are perfect nuggets of Afro-funk, but alas Matata were reportedly homesick and they disbanded to return home. Their short-lived legacy lives on though, and now Dynamites Cuts have turned to their second album to present two of the hottest joints on a cool and deadly 7". 'I Feel Funky' is one of the band's biggest hits, while on the flip we're treated to 'Talkin Talkin' - you can't say funkier than that really, can you?

Review: Soundway's debut Sierra Leone exploration introduces us to Muyei Power who toured their country (and, on occasion, the US) throughout much of the 70s. With only a handful of 45s recorded, their sound has been largely unheard for the last 30/40 years. Until now. Complete with detailed liner notes and artwork, this album is a fantastic document. More importantly, it sounds fantastic: stretching from the more western influenced funk dynamic of "Bi Loko" to the frenetic percussive fusion of "Be Patient" via the smoky, mournful horns on the folky "Ben Ben Bee" there's a unique sound that resonates with everything else you know and love about African music during the ever-fertile 70s, yet rings and stamps with a life of its own.

Review: Late 70s funk fusion from Tunisia: capturing the moment leading Tunis bands Dalton and Marhaba Band joined forces for some legendary disco fusion. "Alech" ignites with a Doobie Brothers style shiny guitar, big slap bass and soaring synth work while "Hanen" is a little more introspective and soulful with its honeyed harmonies and cascading chord sequence. Complete with instrumentals.