LAFAYETTE AFRO ROCK BAND Vinyl & CDs

Review: Strut proudly presents the first official remastered reissue of Lafayette Afro Rock Band's funk/Afro classic, Soul Makossa from 1973. Originally known as the Bobby Boyd Congress, the seven-member Afro-American ensemble relocated from the U.S. to France in 1971. After lead singer Bobby Boyd returned to the US, the group rebranded as Ice and collaborated with producer Pierre Jaubert, whose credits included work with Charles Mingus and John Lee Hooker. Inspired by Motown's work ethic, Jaubert initiated daily rehearsals, leading to the band's unique sound. Immersed in Paris's African-dominated Barbesse district and frequently performing with Cameroonian composer Manu Dibango, the group evolved into Lafayette Afro Rock Band, embracing a heavier, more intricate Afro-funk style. Their debut album, Soul Makossa, featured a dynamic rendition of Dibango's classic, alongside the intense break of 'Hihache' and the infectious 'Nicky.' This meticulously crafted remaster by The Carvery from the original tapes includes the full original artwork, celebrating an iconic album's legacy.

Review: Strut has managed to secure the rights to the first official remastered reissue of Lafayette Afro Rock Band's rare funk and Afro gem, 'Malik,' which originally dropped in 1974. In 1971, the Bobby Boyd Congress, an undocumented Afro-American septet, ventured from the US to France, seeking new horizons. They transformed into Ice upon Boyd's return and then connected with producer Pierre Jaubert who helped to shape their sound amid Paris's vibrant African scene. Then again later renamed, this time as Lafayette Afro Rock Band, they delved into instrumental Afro-funk, birthing classics like 'Soul Makossa' and 'Darkest Light.' Initially overlooked, 'Malik' gained hip-hop acclaim, with 'Conga' and 'Darkest Light' becoming iconic samples. This meticulously remastered reissue celebrates Lafayette Afro Rock Band's musical legacy.