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

(Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 1996), 1 hour 12 mins

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Field of Interest: World Music
Description: 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.
Content Type: Music recording
Duration: 1 hour 12 mins
Format: Audio
Sub Genre: African Drumming, Ritual, Chant, Funeral Music
Label: Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
Release Date: 1996
Subject: World Music, Music & Performing Arts, Africa, África, Ghana
Keywords and Translated Subjects: África