Released in 2009 on the esteemed Honest Jon's Records label, Marvellous Boy: Calypso From West Africa is a remarkable compilation that traces the vibrant cross-cultural story of calypso as it took root and flourished across British West Africa. Drawing on recordings from Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Nigeria — featuring legendary artists such as Ebenezer Calendar, Bobby Benson, E.T. Mensah, and Chris Ajilo — the collection captures a golden era when Caribbean rhythms collided with West African highlife, military brass traditions, Afro-Cuban jazz, and local folk influences to create something entirely its own.
Critics have praised Marvellous Boy: Calypso From West Africa as "endlessly satisfying" (Boston Phoenix) and "gems at every turn" (Brainwashed), and it's easy to hear why — the music is, as the Daily Telegraph put it, "by turns breezy, wistful and downright uproarious." This is a compilation that rewards deep listening, weaving together styles and stories from across a continent in transition, showcasing musicians whose creativity and openness to outside influences produced some of the most joyful and inventive sounds of the mid-twentieth century.
- Handling Time Note: ** Please allow an additional 4-5 business days for this item's shipment. **
- Format: Vinyl
- Label: Honest Jon's Records
- Genre: Jazz, Latin, Folk, World, & Country
- Release Date: 2009
- Remember, for our lowest prices, always order directly from Joco Records!
TRACKS
A1. Poor Freetown Boy
A2. Taxi Driver (I Don't Care)
A3. Ariwo
A4. Olubunmi
A5. Bere Bote
B1. Nylon Dress
B2. Fire Fire Fire
B3. Scrubbs Na Marvellous Boy
B4. Dick Tiger's Victory
B5. Igha Sua Gamwen
C1. The Tree And The Monkey
C2. Calypso Minor One
C3. Cost Of Living Nar Freetown
C4. Me Nar Poor Old Man Nor Do Me So
D1. Gentleman Bobby
D2. Yabomisa Sawale
D3. Mami
D4. Arria Baby
🌍 Joco Planet Impact
With every order, we're offsetting shipping emissions. That's like: