Allen, Tony and the Africa 70 / Jealousy / Progress
Album: Jealousy / Progress   Collection:World
Artist:Allen, Tony and the Africa 70   Added:Aug 2001
Label:Strut  

Recent Airplay
1. Jun 27, 2006: Sun in Libra, Moon in Pisces
Jealousy
4. Jun 24, 2003: No Cover, No Minimum
Afro Disco Beat
2. Jan 04, 2006: Deep in the Groove
Progress
5. Mar 31, 2003: Dollar Bin
Afro Disco Beat
3. May 19, 2005: Baptism of Global Warming
Progress
6. Jan 09, 2002: Sonic Tardis
Progress

Album Review
The Dead Kenny-Gs
Reviewed 2001-08-14
Funky Afro-Groove. This release collects two classic (and obscure) albums from Fela's lead drummer, Tony Allen. Allen was Fela Anikulapo-Kuti's musical right hand man, anchoring and leading The Africa 70's critical rhythm section. These two albums feature Allen with Fela and his band, playing tunes written by Allen. Fela has been described as the James Brown of Nigeria, Tony Allen would be the JBs in this analogy. These recordings were made at the height of Fela's fame and productivity (1975-1977), please read the interview with Allen in the liner notes for the interesting background.
All of the classic Fela elements are represented: Long dance tunes with tight, highly disciplined rhythm section creating a continuous, slowly evolving groove with horns, sax, electric piano, and vocals featuring social or political commentary. Naturally, the drums are in the forefront and soloing somewhat more frequently than on a regular Fela album, particularly on Progress. All tracks get my highest recommendation, particularly 'Afro Disco Beat' on Progress

Jealousy
1) Long mellow groove, heavy drum solo by Allen, long Fela sax solo, then male vocals and chorus.
2) *Crisp, up-tempo instrumental
3) *Funky, tight drums and guitar
4) *Instrumental featuring interlocking drum, bass, and guitar rhythm section, haunting horns, sax and drum solos. Hot!

Track Listing
1. Jealousy   3. Progress
2. Hustler   4. Afro Disco Beat