Seun Kuti

Many Things 

Disorient

Rating: 4/4

Bob Marley fans in search of the next reggae icon prematurely crowned son Ziggy his heir apparent before realizing that younger brother Stephen was the one who had inherited his father’s voice, songwriting chops and sociopolitical concerns. Now, Seun Kuti (whose Yoruban name means “God has done great things”) comes along with seven sizzling Afrobeat songs that prove him even more of a dead ringer for influential father Fela than his older brother, Femi Kuti.  Touring with Nigerian legend Fela from the age of eight, Seun learned to play the saxophone and piano, eventually performing as opening act with his father’s band, Egypt 80. Now 25, Seun’s debut finds him still accompanied by that band, and also proves them the tightest funk unit since the heyday of James Brown’s JBs.  On killer jams such as the title track, “Na Oil,” and “Mosquito Song,” syncopated drums, subterranean basslines, rich guitar, warm organ and blazing horns create a furiously funky foundation as Seun sings passionately about the problems plaguing his homeland. From political corruption and greed to the fight against malaria, Seun Kuti tackles each topic with undeniable charisma and righteous fervor, freeing your mind while Egypt 80’s relentless grooves ensure that your ass will follow.