Na Poi

"Na Poi," released in January 1971, is a seminal work by the legendary Nigerian musician Fela Kuti. This album is a vibrant showcase of Fela Kuti's unique blend of afrobeat, highlife, and afropop, recorded in the bustling city of Lagos. The album features two extended tracks, "Na Poi (Parts 1 & 2)" and "You No Go Die…Unless," both of which are driven by intricate rhythms and powerful horn arrangements that are signature to Fela Kuti's sound.

The album opens with "Na Poi (Parts 1 & 2)," a sprawling, 23-minute exploration of Fela Kuti's political and social views, wrapped in a groovy, danceable package. The track is a masterclass in afrobeat, with its interlocking percussion, wah-wah guitars, and punchy horns. "You No Go Die…Unless" follows, offering a more upbeat and energetic counterpoint to the first track. Both songs highlight Fela Kuti's band, Africa 70, at the height of their powers, with tight musicianship and a shared sense of purpose.

"Na Poi" is a testament to Fela Kuti's innovative spirit and his ability to create music that is both politically charged and incredibly danceable. The album's rhythms churn and grind through several notable movements, with a spirited percussion section and several tight horn arrangements that hark back to the highlife traditions of West Africa while forging a new path forward. This album is a essential listen for anyone interested in the roots of afrobeat and the development of African popular music.