Rhythms of Life, Songs of Wisdom: Akan Music from Ghana

Various Artists

CD (Out of Stock)

Become a Friend of Folkways and stream the collection

This recording leaves the listener breathless and astounded by the musical richness of this small area of Africa. In these performances from remote areas of central Ghana, the collective musical genius of everyday farmers, fisher-folk, traders, and civil servants bursts forth. Their singing and chanting moves through a colorful palette of instruments including water drums, rectangular frame drums, side-blown horns, and brass bands. Clear, penetrating sounds of metal instruments offset by complex drumming patterns are framed by haunting vocals. Listeners are immersed in a kaleidoscope of sound. Thirteen tracks and a 28-page booklet including extensive notes and photos. This is the only commercially available recording of Akan music.

Track Listing

101	Assin Area: Akosua Tuntum Kobina Owusu with Yaa Boadwewa, Akosua Addae, Ama Awona	04:57
102	Efutu Area: Ompeh Stanley Ato Bortsie and Ato Quartey with Ernest Yamoah and Peter Dennis	05:18
103	Denkyira Area: Akosua Tuntum Akwasi Dwira with Amma Dwasoa	05:50
104	Denkyira Area: Talking Drum Elizabeth Kumi, Joseph Manu	03:27
105	Denkyira Area: Dansuomu Abena Konadu with Yaa Ataa	05:44
106	Fante Area: Fontomfrom Opanyin Yaw Amoah	05:00
107	Fante Area: Mmensoun T. K. Aidoo, J. K. Amakya	04:59
108	Fante Area: Adzewa Madam Aba Wansema	04:13
109	Fante Area: Brass Band John Alex Acquah	04:32
110	Fante Area: Vocal Band Moses Quianoo with Victoria Sam	04:35
111	Fante Area: Apatampa Nana Kweku Atta with Nana Adaade and Aba Buduah	05:32
112	Fante Area: Osode Kwamena Prah with Kofi Arba	09:01
113	Fante Area: Moses Kwamena Prah with Kofi Arba	08:20