Ginger Johnson And His African Messengers
African Party

Widely regarded as a mentor to Fela Kuti among others in the 60s, Nigerian born, UK raised Ginger Johnson was an influential figure not only with musician’s (including Cymande and Osibisa) but also on the club scene of the Sixties. He was also instrumental in the beginnings of the Notting Hill carnival and as a drummer and percussionist was called upon by the likes of Quincy Jones, Georgie Fame and The Rolling Stones. ‘African Party’ is pretty much just that: an energetic blend of Hi-life and jazz giving tracks like ‘I Jool Omo’, ‘Adura’ and ‘Alege’ a carnival feel. ‘Talking Drum’ brings in some latin influences while ‘Ire’ is a pulsating afro-jazz workout. Good expose of this important yet overlooked figure.