Aw Sa Yone Vol. 1

Lively afro-soul-jazz from the heart of Senegal, led by guitarist Pape Seck, formerly of psychedelic Gambian legends Guelewar, in a dusty archival recording unearthed by the dedicated Teranga Beat label. Thick, relentless rhythms syncopate and stomp, never losing momentum for a second. Singers croon, horns flutter, and there’s a sunny tropical vibe that somehow avoids the lightheartedness of a “party” atmosphere. At times brooding, melancholy, or chilled-out, always groovy, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

1. (12:11) Syncopated Cuban-esque tune, somber in tone despite summery horns and upbeat percussion, happy guitar, call & response vox.
2. (10:49) a slow dance tune, plodding beat punctuated by horns and impassioned, wailing vocals. Rhythm guitar and sax sound just as mournful.
3. (10:15)* faster, hectic percussion clutter, impatient vocals and guitar—a crisp, cool solo belies the confused yet controlled havoc in the rhythm section and horns
4. (8:29)** bright and soulful sax-driven anthem, guitar solos take a fuzzier flanged-out psych edge while sparse vocals add urgency
5. (8:02) steady chord progression and thumping bassline take you on a jaunty funk ride; lead guitar and manic percussion liven things up here and there, but it’s mostly a jam with a fairly constant mood
6. (10:27) lilting jazzy guitar melodies, gently swinging rhythms, soft Afro-Cuban sounding ballad
7. (10:10) bouncy rhythm guitar and saccharine horns make this Gambia’s answer to ska or Calypso, lovely
8. (8:43)* Deep funereal chanting vocals, the band picks up into a groove that never loses its sense of solemnity