Ben Okafor weighs in with 'Acoustic Close-Up' CD

AFRICAN roots and reggae man Ben Okafor returns with a new album for Plankton Records, 'Acoustic Close-Up'. Recorded at his new purpose built recording studio, the album is described as "unlike any other Ben Okafor album." Said Okafor, "I wanted to stretch myself musically and creatively by rooting this album in acoustic instruments, but at the same time bring my character and all that I am to bear in the music, its arrangements and ultimately the performances. Consequently there is a large percussive element integrated into the music, much of which I performed using African instruments. Lyrically, the songs cover my upbringing in Africa (which included some time as a boy soldier), life's experiences, my all-important faith and my reflections on the state of the world."