The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra - Nunc Est Bibendum/Shake That Off (2023) [Hi-Res]

Following on from their 2019 record Naming and Blaming, Australia’s premiere Afrobeat band The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra burst out of the gates with a potent new single ‘Shake That Off’, recorded live at Program Records pressing plant in Naarm’s Preston. Like the title suggests, you’ll find it hard to keep still through the hypnotic rhythms and howling horn sections evoking the music pioneered by Nigeria’s Fela Kuti in the 1970’s. The single speaks to finding the positive in every situation, and features spitfire verses from rapper One Sixth and authentic Afrobeat vocals from Olugbade Okunade.

Guitar, percussion and keys create the bed for a vibrant saxophone solo before the band and full horn section joins and builds to a crescendo. Simmering down for One Sixth’s verse, backing vocals chant in to support the chorus line, ‘Stress on the right? Shake that off! Pressure on the left? Shake that off! Problems in life? Whatever’s on your mind you can shake that off.’ A momentary dubbed out pace change sets us up for Olugbade’s call and response section and the single blisters all the way to its final moments, achieving exactly what was intended.

The band remains true to the Afrobeat blueprint of pulsating rhythm, extended improvisation and political comment, adding to the formula a host of pan-African and local influences as well as hip-hop elements that reflect their deep ranging roots. This unique blend of cultures equates to a boiling cauldron of musical fire, reflecting the importance of community and staying true to one’s convictions. Trumpeter and vocalist Olugbade Okunade reminds us that, “No matter the situation you find yourself, always wear a smile, celebrate every small win as you go because problem no dey finish, so get up and dance.”