Various Artists - Lagos Stori Plenti (Urban Sounds from Nigeria)
(Out Here Records/ OH 005)
WOW WOW!!! I knew Nigerian city music was good - but until I heard this compilation I didn't realise how good. From the first song, 'I am a Nigerian' by Terry tha Rapman, I was smiling. I am a Nigerian, you see, so I take great joy in singing those words. The whole album demonstrates maturity and progress in the Nigerian hip-hop scene. Some songs are strangely reminiscent of the upbeat and carefree sounds of early hi-life. Some names are familiar also like the talented JJC & 419 Squad and Weird MC - the only female artist on the compilation. Others simply take you by surprise - in a very good way!
Nigeria may be one of the craziest places in this world but it has always been a big player in international music - and this album just proves that.
Reviewer : Chino Odimba