The Nigerian drummer exposes the roots of Afrobeats.

Tony Allen has long been considered Africa's best drummer and is one of the continent's most influential musicians. His influences are highlife, soul/funk, jazz and traditional Nigerian drums. Alongside Fela Kuti, with whom he played for 15 years, he invented Afrobeat, a driving, funky, politically insurgent style that not only became a driving force within African music, but was also influential worldwide. Not only is the album "Secret Agent" a majestic testament to the roots of Afrobeats, but it is also Allen's first release since he made waves as a founding member of The Good The Bad And The Queen alongside Damon Albarn, Paul Simenon and Simon Tong. "Secret Agent" was produced by Allen himself and recorded with his tried-and-tested touring band - including musicians from Nigeria, Cameroon and France. The result: gnawing guitars, funky keyboards, soulful vocals, big brass and lots of driving, irresistible beats. “Without Tony Allen there would be no Afrobeat” (Fela Kuti).

Label:
World Circuit WCV082R
Format:
2 × Vinyl, LP, 180g, album, reissue, remastered, gatefold, booklet
Country:
Europe
Published:
17 May 2022
Genre:
Funk/Soul
Style:
Afro beat

Tracklist:

A1 Secret Agent
A2Ijo
A3Switch
B1Celebrate
B2Ayenlo
B3Busybody
C1Pariwo
C2Nina Lowo
C3Atuwaba
D1Alutere
D2Elewon Po