Record Store Day never fails to deliver a multitude of unexpected gems; the celebration of all things wax-related surging in popularity alongside global vinyl sales. Our friends at Mr Bongo are dishing up a glorious treat for all Highlife fans, in the form of one particular reissue.
Recorded in 1976 on Gapophone Records, Marijata’s ‘This is Marijata’ is one of the most sought-after Afro-Funk records of all-time, be that in its original pressing or indeed one of many reissues. Initially part of the Sweet Beans highlife project sponsored by the Ghana Cocoa Marketing Board, Marijata emerged through members Kofi “Electrik” (Guitar), Bob Andrew Fischian (Organ) and Nathan Fredua Prempeh aka Nat Osmanu (Guitar). Interestingly, the group’s name was derived from Mari Djata, previous ruler of the Mali Empire, highlighting the pan-Africanism championed by the group; a demonstration of pride in their continent’s achievements.
Visceral, raw and high-tempo, their sound traversed genres, from Afro-Funk to boogie, garnering instant adoration from Ghanian music fans. Even after being joined and led by the unmistakable Pat Thomas on later albums, their breakthrough 12” is still considered to be the group’s most revered body of work, we can’t wait for this!
Available via Mr Bongo on April 22nd.