My Vote Dey Count

Yaaba Funk are very much a London band: British and European, black and white, mixed-gender and politically engaged but intent on partying. Their sound draws on a variety of influences to create a strong, supple flavour. Long- championed as a great live band, My Vote Dey Count proves they can cut it in the studio too. The album’s cover is a striking example of African folk art: bright and direct, just like their music.

Opening tune ‘Gyae Me Na Mendwen (James Brown)’ begins with a funky guitar pattern and frantic rhythm that leads into a driving number in which vocalist Richmond Kessie sings in Ghanaian. Bright brass and a fat, near-psychedelic organ solo add strong flavours. ‘Poor Man’s Tale’ follows, a little slower, and it’s more Afro-soul than Afrobeat. ‘Ghana A-Z’ begins with a subtle xylophone melody and builds beautifully.

The songwriting here is potent, with only ‘Political War’ failing to make the grade, being more a slogan than a song. Across this oªen excellent album Yaaba Funk prove themselves as an original unit. Indeed, My Vote Dey Count is a far more accomplished and engaging album than anything recently released by the legendary Kuti clan.