The Second Case of the Voodoo Funk

Today's show follows up an episode a few weeks ago dedicated to 45rpm singles from the country of Benin. Benin is home to the Vodun religion, the primary source of Voodoo as practiced in the Americas. The music from Benin (and some neighboring countries) reflects the drumming and the trance-like vocal patterns of Vodun religious ceremonies. Today's show features mostly music from Benin, plus a few tracks from Burkina Faso and The Congo.

The first half of today's set is dedicated to sounds of the late 60s and early 70s. These were recordings by young musicians who were still cutting their teeth; there is a definite garage-rock quality to these loose jam sessions and experimental sounds. The middle of the first set today showcases some of the religious music of Vodun performed for popular recording in the early days of Benin's professional music era.

The second hour today moves into the late 70s and early 80s, showing more polished musicianship and recording chops. Lots of longer tunes this hour, allowing the talented musicians to stretch out for psychedelic solos. Just two bands featured in the second hour today (although with various singers):  the well known Orchestre Poly-Rythmo, and the much lesser known Orchestre Les Volcans. 

It's another deeeeep Africa day on the Adventures.