Reviewed by George Luke

Despite their World Music remit, Caribbean rhythms have always remained topmost on Lion Of Zion's list of priorities. So it's nice to see them signing up some decent African talent - their first release from the continent since 2002's groundbreaking (and still fresh-sounding) 'Africa Anointed' compilation. Kenneth Appiah hails from Ghana, but his musical influences aren't restricted to that country, nor to Africa's west coast. The opening track, "Temple", is a heartfelt plea to be used by God, set against a cocktail of primal percussion and choppy guitars. The title track is a socially aware reggae song, reminiscent of Ben Okafor at his best, or of the sadly departed Lucky Dube. "Aboloo" (Bread of life) is a kicking slice of highlife, Ghana's most popular musical export. The acoustic guitars and horns are used to good effect again on "Mebo" (I Will Call) - an Afro-beat tune Fela would have been proud of. The Fela influences can also be heard on "Golgota" (Golgotha), and on "Yesu Nkoaa Nowo Tumi" (Only Jesus Has Power) Kenneth does George Benson's old fun trick of singing along to his guitar solos. The self-explanatory "ABC Of Salvation" retold the story of Jesus' encounter with Nicodemus in a hilarious mixture of English and Pidgin English that nearly made me spit coffee all over my laptop! Ken is a very passionate singer and the Soul Winners are one of the tightest bands I've heard in a long while. This is fantastic stuff. Nice one, Lion Of Zion; now don't leave it too long before springing more great African music on us. . .

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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