Dele Sosimi’s Pick Of The Month
'LeonARD OKPALA DE PEACE MAKER & HIS NDICHIA SUPER SOUND
This 3 track Igbo Highlife beauty from 1975 brings a groovy vibrancy that fits these sun-soaked days – from the cheeky telephone conversation between lovers that kicks off the first track to the 16 min deep groove work out of track 2 with classic vocal call and answers – this one had us hooked from the start.
Leonard Okpale and His Ndichia Super Dance Band Of Africa (also known as the Ichie Super Dance Band), is a celebrated voice in Igbo Highlife music, known for a gorgeously funky, highlife sound that carried deep cultural and social messages.
Okpala emerged during the post-civil war resurgence of Igbo Highlife music in Nigeria and was an huge advocate for unity hence his name the Peace Maker. His songs often told stories as modern folklore, passing down traditional wisdom and addressing societal issues.
