This is the third compilation in Luaka Bop's series of "world psychedelic classics," and this time David Byrne's label has hooked up with the west coast young bucks at Stones Throw to explore some sounds from '70s Africa. As the title hints, this is not a strictly funky affair. The tracks tend to fall somewhere on the spectrum between baroque acid-laced rock and the more familiar afrobeat grooves we've heard in other compilations. The solid thump of Tunji Oyelana's "Ifa(1)" and the Super Eagles' "Love's A Real Thing(2)" (sounding a bit like an African LA Carnival) bracket the funk and rock ends of the spectrum, while Dahomey's Orchestre Poly-Rythmo presents a perfect illustration of the genres' blend with their heavy "Minsato Le, Mi Dayihome(3)." There are a couple of nice latin cuts (rumba was a popular sound in West Africa), "Allah Wakbarr(4)" being the choice for the traditionalist who might not appreciate the over the top fuzz guitar on No.1 de No.1's "Guajira Van(5)." Also check Moussa Doubia's JB-inspired "Keleya(6)" and Sorry Bamba's "Porry(7)." The ten cuts (spread over two pieces of vinyl) may not be DJ material for most, but are a diverse and interesting addition to the growing library of quality afro compilations.

reviewed by monk