VARIOUS – ADVENTURES IN AFROPEA 3:TELLING STORIES TO THE SEA

Adventures in Afropea 3: Telling Stories to the Sea, is one of the first and most comprehensive anthologies of Afro-Portuguese out there. The music hails from Lisbon, Angola, Sao Tomé, and the Cape Verde islands, all fantastically represented here. Afropea may be the most soulful foreign music, as you can hear a variety of other heartfelt popular musical styles within its confines (blues, sambas, and rumbas, to name a few). Only the genre’s very best artists are represented here, making it essential for newcomers. Bongo (aka Barceló de Carvalho) is possibly the most famous, and supplies the album’s best track, “Mona Ki Ngi Xica.” Originally released back in 1972, the track actually got Bongo arrested for its rebellious (for the time) lyrics, which is surprising since it’s a lovely acoustic ballad. Another highlight is 60-year-old singer Césaria Évora, who contributes the song “Sodade.” With a similar acoustic sound to Bongo’s track, Évora possesses a ravishing voice, singing in a sad tone. A superb compilation compiled by David Byrne himself. Record Store Daye Exclusive. Comes in die-cut gatefold sleeve.