Various Artists - Bongo Flava (Swahili Rap from Tanzania)

(out | here rec/ OH 003)

Compiled by Jay Rutledge, journalist, radio DJ, and owner of the Munich-based indie label out | here rec, whose previous work includes what was probably the first internationally released African hip-hop compilation back in 2001, the brilliant 'Africa Raps', this is the definitive collection on bongo flava.

Fourteen tracks that offer a snapshot of what is played in Tanzania with the different subgenres of bongo flava, from conscious to party tracks, all being present. The sound is overall upbeat with great melodies, very musical hip-hop. The sleeve notes are informativ, and give you the story of bongo flava as well as background information on all the artists featured.

These are the most popular artists in their country and there are many highlights including 'Umoja wa Tanzania' (Juma Nature feat. Professor Jay), 'Alikufa kwa ngoma' (Mwana FA feat. Lady JD), 'Zali la mentali' (Professor Jay feat. Juma Nature & Muny), 'Asali wa Moyo' (Gangwe Mobb), 'Wife' (Daz Baba feat. Mangwair) and'Maji ya shingo RMX' (Daz Nundaz). A winner.

Reviewer : JJC

Umoja wa Tanzania (clip)