Francis Bebey :: Douala, O Mulema

bebeyThe late Cameroonian musician Francis Bebey has been the subject of two excellent compilations over the past several years, African Electronic Music 1975-1982 and the subsequent Psychedelic Sanza 1982-1984. While the former (an absolute party of a record) focuses on Bebey’s marriage of African rhythms with synth heavy funk, (songs like “New Track” and “Savannah Georgia” get super slinky), the following years found him mellowing out and leaning towards a more organic, earthy aesthetic.

African Electronic Music does at times conjure a folkier, tropical atmosphere, (see: “Tiers Monde” and “Fleur Tropicale”) but it’s on Psychedelic Sanza, especially the opener “Sanza Nocturne” (also known as “Akwaaba”), which Bebey really takes us into denser, more atmospheric territory. The blending rhythms of sanza (thumb piano), electric bass and rainforest percussion produce a much dreamier and hypnotic effect than the recordings of the previous collection.

Francis Bebey :: Douala, O Mulema

Leading us to “Douala, O Mulema”, off Bebey’s 1976 lp La Condition Masculine — a heavenly song that feels wholly made of clouds. The synths and Bebey’s singing here are breezy and blissful, peppered with unexpected bursts of grittier, more futuristic hints of electronics. The results form a   gorgeous and totally singular piece of music. Enjoy. words / c depasquale

Bonus: Francis Bebey cut two rare sides of tropical folk with Cameroonian guitarist Willy Le Paape. These tunes find the two artists in a casual harmony, both their voices and guitars dancing over an easy percussive groove. Perfect for these dwindling summer nights.

Francis Bebey :: Djemba (w/ Willy Le Paape)
Francis Bebey :: Tondo Mba (w/ Willy Le Paape)

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