Seconds anyone? Last week we featured some 1970's West African jams courtesy of two of Nigeria's most well-loved Afro-rock bands, BLO and Ofege. Both selections certainly emphasized the Western influence and the "rock" side of the Afro-rock equation. This week let's venture into a bit more adventurous territory, with a couple of tracks that display a more pronounced African influence. It should go without saying that we're obviously just scratching the surface here, but next week Stacks promises to move on to different territory (even if its author doesn't).



Sung in Yoruba, here we have a lovely example rooted in the classic highlife. An up-tempo, horn driven song that swings and seems capable of kick-starting just about any party.



Nicknamed "Guitar Boy", Victor Uwaifo built his own guitar at aged 12, went on to receive Africa's first gold record in 1969, and has become one of Nigeria's most famous musicians. This is a sampling from his self-styled/christened "Ekassa" period and is a true fusion of new meets old.

"Aiye Le" translates as "The World Is Hard", a sentiment expressed plainly in this song's call and response vocals. Olufemi Ajasa pushed traditional juju music to new directions with his integration of rock and roll inspired guitar, bass and drums.


(also found on Strut Records recent reissue of Nigeria 70: The Definitive Story of 1970's Funky Lagos)

Give this song a listen and it's guaranteed to be among the strangest, funkiest 8 minutes of your life. Musically speaking, "Better Change Your Mind" sounds like it could have been beamed down from outer space; but it's lyrical message is rooted deeply in the world in which we all live.