Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou

Hailing from Benin "Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou" have been making funky afro beat since the 1960's. It is safe to say that through their set I heard many recognisable little snippets. On mulling this over with Spad we decided that we had heard these parts as samples in various drum and bass tracks. Not surprising when you consider they have released  over 500 records. The guys can certainly throw down some cracking breaks. The show was fantastic - funky, full of character and oozing with a hot down to earth groove. Highly recommended.Big shout out to the ever accommodating Lesley Shaw on getting me the inside track on taking the photos.Check out the bands website it's pretty classic.http://www.polyrythmo.com/

Orchestre Poly Rythmo de Cotonou are a band from Benin, which plays Afrobeat, Funk, Soukous and other styles, often based on Vodun ryhtmns. Active since the late 1960s, and having recorded around 500 songs, they are still touring around the world today, playing in venues such as London's Barbican Centre. Compilations of their work have recently been issued through Analog Africa, Soundway Records and Popular African Music.