Spirit of Africa
Real World Records, in conjunction with the Mercury Phoenix Trust, are proud to announce the release of "Spirit of Africa" (through Real World) on 15th October 2001.
"Spirit of Africa" is an AIDS initiative from the Mercury Phoenix Trust, the AIDS charity established by the remaining members of Queen and their manager Jim Beach in the wake of the death of Freddie Mercury. Since 1992 the Trust has been responsible for donating more than £7 million in the fight against the AIDS crisis to over 100 different charities around the world. Together with this album, the project is intended to focus global attention on the regions of the developing world where the needs for AIDS awareness and education is greatest.
Reviews
'Traditional styles, modern fusion, pounding drumbeats, and poignant lyrics present an array of sounds... This music of Africa may lift spirits, as well as help in the fight to end this epidemic.'
'Intensity is the bond that makes Spirit of Africa a real album... the compilers chose strong, inspiring (and, yes, educational) material. Experiencing the worldview of Spirit of Africa feels necessary, now more than ever.'
'Musical selections...as diverse as the continent.'
'This recording is a power house for the cause and for the amazing line up of this release. A true gem!!'
'The CD would be a formidable-and, ironically, uplifting-introduction to the irrsistible, irrepressible music of Africa under any circumstances. That it was complied and released, with such obvious love, for this cause makes it a must...'
Tams 'Sima'
'With Spirit of Africa, Real World continues its longstanding commitment to releasing the passionate, pentup muiscal soul of the region. Tama's interpretation of "Sima" allows listeners in other times and places to reexperience these inimitable sensations of a deeply-nuanced region of the globe.'
'...an indescribably moving performance by Uganda's Taso Choir, all of whom are sufferers.'
'...its uplifting and has something for everyone.'
Tracklist & Audio Samples
| play | If You Go Away by Various Artists |
| play | Somali Udiida Ceb (Somalia, Don't Shame Yourself) by Maryam Mursal |
| play | Aids The Devil (Sai Sai Sida) by Omar Pene & Super Dianomo de Dakar |
| play | It's Sad In This World by Mzwakhe Mbuli |
| play | Our Young People by Youssou N'Dour |
| play | Sima by Tama |
| play | 10% (Spirit Mix) by Ayub Ogada |
| play | The Firewood Collector by Bernard Kabanda |
| play | Things With Socks (Mambo Kwa Soksi) by Remmy Ongala |
| play | Baraka by Hamid Baroudi |
| play | Heaven Is My Home by Imbizo |
| play | Kuna Kunguni / The Bedbugs Bite by Zawose & Brook |
| play | Extract by Drummers of Burundi |
| play | Aids The Disease by TASO Choir |