Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 at Koko
It is perhaps inevitable that Seun Kuti endures comparisons to his father, Afrobeat pioneer and political activist Fela Kuti. While his elder brother Femi forged his own path, Seun leaned into the legacy carved out before him when he took the helm of his late father’s band, Egypt 80. It’s not hard to imagine why – the EFG London Jazz Festival hosts many acts nourished by its musical and spiritual influence.
It is fitting, then, that the set kicks off with a song of Fela’s: Shuffering and Shmiling. Ever the topical speaker, he remarks “I heard your archbishop just resigned… why might that be”. It’s not the same calibre of commentary offered on the song itself, but the lyrics remain eerily relevant to the news of abuses covered up by the Church of England. We are reminded to remain sceptical of religious institutions in the face of corruption and misuse of power: “We now have to carry our minds / Out of those goddamn places / Back into this musical contraption.” Seun’s commentary between songs may not have the same bite, but it’s easy to forget this when the music begins.
Seun’s vocal chops are impressive, but his ability to bind his band together is his forte. Capturing and amplifying the group’s energy like a lightning rod, he conducts them with the fluid movements of his entire body. Enticing movement and shunning rigidity seem to be the core message of the music itself. Carried in this benevolent pulse, the listener is encouraged to both think and move freely.
The rhythm section is especially strong. Rich bass tones courtesy of Kunle Justice roll along in languorous, drawling phrases during Stand Well Well. When the band is preparing to mount the intensity, it is first felt through the almost subconscious lower frequencies like a tremor before an earthquake. Mario Orsinet on drums displays admirable stamina throughout lengthy jams while adding subtle embellishments to keep them interesting.
Many tunes maintain a climactic level of energy for some time. One sax solo can run for minutes, with the band adapting, apparently telepathically, to the breathless push and pull of tension. Growling horns are always ready to provide a catchy refrain, while the two backing vocalists are a force to be reckoned with in themselves. Mounting layers of repeated ideas induce a vaguely hypnotic state, but the audience are kept constantly engaged with frequent improvised passages. These periods of euphoria are a testament to the combined decades of experience from everyone on stage.
Many acts playing at the EFG London Jazz Festival have Fela to thank as the progenitor of their musical style. Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 don’t just emulate his music, they continue to reify a legacy that remains crucial.
Ben Browning
Photos: Virginie Viche
For further information and future events visit Seun Kuti & Egypt 80’s website here.
Watch the video for the single Giant of Africa here:
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