In the early 1970s, Dakar was the crucible for a unique fusion of Cuban salsa, American soul and West African rhythms. Hammering talking drums fused with strutting funk and fiery Cuban brass – James Brown and Celia Cruz were among the visiting stars – and came topped with melodious Senegalese vocals. The 12 tracks here, drawn from rare vinyl and tapes made by the owner of renowned Dakar club Sangomar, capture the era perfectly. Languid moments such as Amara Touré’s El Carretero mix with torrid dance numbers by Orchestre Laye Thiam and Orchestra Baobab, whose spiralling guitar solos had a psychedelic tinge (move over Jerry Garcia). Still vibrant, this is pop archaeology at its best.
