Based in Cotonou, Benin, which at the time was referred to as Dahomey, Albarika Records was founded by the French-born, Benin-based producer and entrepreneur, Emmanuel "Manu" Dibango, who had a significant influence on the local music scene. The label was instrumental in releasing records from some of the region's most prominent musicians during the golden age of African music.
Many of the artists signed to Albarika Records were known for blending indigenous African rhythms with Western jazz, funk, and soul influences. This made their sound distinctive and part of a broader movement across West Africa during the 60s and 70s, as music became a form of social and political expression.
Broadcasting out of Birmingham, Arrhythmia is a monthly exploration of interesting new audio and abnormal rhythms. Expect irregular, dark or heavy - but not always.
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Shanti is a veteran and expert in four to the floor dance music - tune in once a month for a considered two-hour selection of the best house and techno around, transmitting direct from the NTS studio.
Shanti is a veteran and expert in four to the floor dance music - tune in once a month for a considered two-hour selection of the best house and techno around, transmitting direct from the NTS studio.