Work Hard

Recorded in 2020 and 2021 in Ghana and The Netherlands, Work Hard arguably presents Ghana's kologo maestro King Ayisoba (born Albert Apoozore) in his most eclectic, Afrofuturist setting to date. While the album's nine tracks are dominated by Ayisoba's signature vocal and instrumental style, each song is more deeply contoured by his collaboration with a featured guest. The list of Ayisoba's Work Hard colleagues includes dancehall specialist Ras Kuuku (‘Good Things God Knows’), older kologo player Awilo One (‘Bossi Lobome’), fellow kologo players Ayunne Sule (‘People Talk Too Much’) and (David) Atamina (‘Namba Sonne’), and Jamaican reggae singer Bush Man (‘Adinooma’). Dutch producer Zea (Arnold de Boer) recorded two tracks, mastered the album, contributed guitar licks and sang the falsetto refrain on ‘Kokoko Enter’.

With typically sharp insight and satirical wit, Ayisoba's lyrical commentary touches on topics ranging from divine destiny and unjust punishment (especially of women) to healthy eating and the primacy of local culture. Throughout Work Hard an imaginative incorporation of synthesised sounds, samples and electronic effects with acoustic horns, flutes, talking drums and traditional string instruments, such as the bowed goje, creates a nonstop whirlwind of thoroughly danceable, 21st-century African music.