Francis Bebey African Electronic Music ( 1975-1982 ) ( vinyl 2LP )

Release date: 18-12-2012

2012 issue ( vinyl 2LP ) -African Electronic Music 1975-1982 compiles recordings from the earlier portion of multi-instrumentalist, writer, and musicologist Francis Bebey's output. Employing traditional Western and African instrumentation as well as innovations of the era like synthesizers and drum machines, his sound was a forward-thinking and richly engaging blend of African roots music, the makossa (urban popular music) of his native Cameroon, and the then-emerging electronic music movement.

Simultaneously minimal and layered, Bebey's ebullient melodies, kinetic rhythms, and endearing vocals (sung and toasted in his native Duala as well as in French and English) highlight songs like the marimba- and bass-driven "New Track" and the wryly bubbly "Coffee Cola Song," paving the way for artists like Afro-funk fusionist Manu Dibango, electrified thumb piano innovators Konono No. 1, and avant-afro groovers NOMO.

Tracks:
LP1
A1 New Track
A2 La Condition Masculine
A3 Wuma Te

B1 Divorce Pygmée
B2 Fleur Tropical
B3 Tiers Monde

LP2
C1 Agatha
C2 Pygmy Love Song
C3 Catching Up
C4 Sahel

D1 The Coffee Cola Song
D2 Super Jingle
D3 Savanah Georgia
D4 Il N'y A Pas De Crocodiles A Cocody

Francis Bebey is An African composer (well-known writer and journalist) concerned with keeping alive African traditions