Digging 4 Gold

One of the most prolific recording groups of the 1970s in Ghana was the African Brothers Band.  The lineup itself went through several reincarnations, including a “mass exodus of the band’s original members in 1974” [taken from the liner notes from the “Tribute to D.K.” LP].  Regardless, the band managed to produce a score of singles and LPs without interruption.  And despite the talented musicians who played with the band - including Teacher Boateng, S.K. Ofri of Ogya Tanaa fame, and Eddie Donkor - it’s one man’s name that’s ultimately synonymous with the African Brothers: Nana Kwame Ampadu I.  

Aside from his many accomplishments, which include leading the band formally from the late 60s onward, he’s credited for pioneering the ultra funky hybrid sound known as Afrohili, a combination of afrobeat and highlife.  No album exemplifies the sound better than their full-length, Locomotive Train (Keteke).   

Nana comes out in full force as he accents the band’s relentless funk rhythms with a James Brown-like call and response, all in half twi/half pigeon English.  You can find one of these songs, “Ngyegye No So,” on Analog Africa’s Afro-beat Airways, but in all fairness this whole album begs for a proper release.  One of my all-time favorites.

Sadly, my attempts to track down Mr. Ampadu proved futile, but I’m determined to go back and eventually get his story on tape.  You can find a decent overall on his website.  For now though, sit back and enjoy these wicked tunes.

African Brothers Band - Locomotive Train (Keteke)