Akwassa - In the Groove (1977)

First official reissue ever! Nigeria had an utterly strong popular music scene in the 1970s, “Afro Beat” and “Afro Funk” were the hottest musical creations of the day and garage rock oriented bands like OFEGE or funky monsters AKWASSA were at the forefront of the movement. I deliberately call it their second album despite three albums that were released under the monicker HEADS FUNK BAND with exactly the same line up as AKWASSA from 1975 to 1978. However, the main difference between “In the groove” and the earlier records is a more slick and polished feeling and a strong reggae element. Next to this, there are definitely a few more up to date disco funk influences that outweigh the classic raw streetfunk we could find on the predecessors of “In the groove”. So the development in sound and style is obvious. 'In the Groove' has a more easy, more relaxed feeling. The atmosphere is bright and certainly reaches out for a wider audience. AKWASSA were stars in their palce. “In the groove” was a perfect album that would appeal to each and every fan of funky music. All the members of AKWASSA stayed with music after the band dissolved in the late 70s, some of them until recent years, others straight up into the 80s or 90s. Even though this important Nigerian band called out it's quit somewhen, they left a rich legacy of music! Colorful and inspiring this album is made to last forever due to the memorable hooks and harmonies. While collectors spend 1.000 EUR for original copies, an official reissue of this monster rarity was overdue and Afro Funk lovers around the world will leap for joy as nearly all tunes could be played in a row to set the dancefloor ablaze!