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

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.

RELATED LESSON PLAN
"They’re Ghana Love It!: Experiences with Ghanaian Music for Middle School General Music Students"

Track Listing

101	Assin Area: Akosua Tuntum	Akosua tuntum ensemble of Assin Enyinabirim	04:57
102	Efutu Area: Ompeh	Ompeh ensemble led by Stanley Ato Bortsie and Ato Quartey	05:18
103	Denkyira Area: Akosua Tuntum	Akosua tuntum ensemble of Diaso	05:50
104	Denkyira Area: Talking Drum	Elizabeth Kumi and Joseph Manu	03:27
105	Denkyira Area: Dansuomu	Dansuomu ensemble of Kyekyewere	05:44
106	Fante Area: Fontomfrom	Fontomfrom ensemble Eyisam Mbensuon	05:00
107	Fante Area: Mmensoun	Asafra Catholic C.Y.O. Mmensoun Group	04:59
108	Fante Area: Adzewa	Bentsir Adzewafo No. 1	04:13
109	Fante Area: Brass Band	Ogoekrom Brass Band No. 2	04:32
110	Fante Area: Vocal Band	Odo ye few korye kuw Vocal Band (Love is Beautiful Unity Vocal Band)	04:35
111	Fante Area: Apatampa	Apatampa band of Komenda	05:32
112	Fante Area: Osode	Twerrampon Traditionals	09:01
113	Fante Area: Moses	Twerrampon Traditionals	08:20