Search - Allenko Brotherhood Ensemble :: Brotherhood

Afro-Beat remixed for the millennium

Joe Sixpack -- Slipcue.com | ...in Middle America | 08/18/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Tony Allen was the much-revered drummer for Fela Kuti's legendary Africa 70 ensemble; as such he was largely responsible for crafting the relentlessly infectious, driving marathon beat of the Nigerian supergroup. This remix project features a host of artists, from soul-oriented rappers to electronic mixmasters. Several tracks, particularly the instrumentals, are appropriately hypnotic and captivating, while some of the vocal numbers seem a bit off the mark. Maybe that's because Allen's genius was rhythmic and nonverbal, and by wedding his work to flavor-of-the-day lyrics, it pulls the listener in unnecessary directions. Anyway, keep in mind that's just my reaction, and I'm pretty picky. Afro-beat fanatics will not be disappointed by this album."