África Negra - Anthology Vol.1 (2LP) [Bongo Joe]

Format: 2x12" in gatefold sleeve.
CAT: BJR056LP

Continuing our work in São Tomé and Príncipe alongside curator DJ Tom B., we are pleased to announce the release of an anthology by the group África Negra.

This first volume brings together 12 of their essential tracks, specially remastered for this edition and selected exclusively from officially published material in various formats. A second volume, comprising solely unreleased material, digitized from studio tapes by their tour manager and accompanied by vintage photographs, will be released soon.

Formed in the early seventies by Horacio, a butcher by trade, and his guitarist friend Emidio Pontes, África Negra is the most renowned band among the great groups of São Tomé and Príncipe. The contagious melodies in Forro language, performed by vocalist João Seria and subtly harmonized by the charming backing vocals of the rest of the group, quickly ensured their projection beyond the archipelago. Their unparalleled blend of Puxa and Rumba rhythms, alongside delicate melodies, made them the most actively touring band from São Tomé.

Their first album (Aninha) was released in 1981, followed by three more in 1983. These records contain an extraordinary collection of timeless songs and have achieved high value in the second-hand market. Then came the excellent San Lena in 1986, which unfortunately was only released on cassette, although for this edition it was possible to digitize the original tape. In 1990, their last album in vinyl format appeared (Paga me uma cerveja), the rarest of all. During the nineties, three CDs and five cassettes followed. Like most São Toméan bands, they recorded their compositions at Rádio Nacional STP, the island's only studio at the time, whose reduced facilities forced large groups to hold outdoor sessions, in the courtyard, at night, facing the ocean and their followers.

Reformed around João Seria, the band has recorded three albums since 2012 and has resumed touring for several years, always offering with the same energy their frenetic rhythms, elegant harmonies, poetry full of social metaphors, and their characteristic dance moves.