Undiscovered Africa

An unashamedly commercial compilation of African music from up-and-coming artists, this album features little-known acts from Nigeria, Rwanda, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. All 15 tracks are previously unreleased and have been partially funded and promoted by Bristol-based Africantunz. It follows on from their previous release by Zangwana from Botswana and is in a very similar musical vein – notably with a big funky township keyboard backing. The collection commences with a great spiritual reggae track by Chrispin from Rwanda and includes tracks that pay tribute to victims of the Ebola virus and speak out against xenophobia.

Despite the serious nature of some of the songs, there is no escaping their infectiousness and appeal. It might not all be the most thought-provoking or culturally stimulating music but frequenters of dance floors throughout Africa respond to this style of music. I anticipate a similar reaction elsewhere.