ANGELIQUE KIDJO – OYO

Whilst she has long been hailed as “Africa’s premier diva” Kidjo has lived outside of Africa for over 20 years now, and if the influence of the West has not been evident enough in her work to date, Oyo makes it blatantly clear. Described as an album of interpretations of music that inspired Kidjo as she grew up, the songs of Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding and Curtis Mayfield are as prominent as those of her homeland. Of  the non-Western offering the opening Zelie is simple and haunting, and Kelele showcases the depth of  Kidjo’s instany recognisable voice to best effect with an irresistibly danceable Soweto inspired beat. Baby I Love You takes Franklin and adds some African sensuality, and Kidjo certainly has the swagger to pull off Brown’s Cold Sweat – albeit without his dripping masculine energy. And what is not to love about another great version of Move On Up. This will keep Angelique Kidjo fans more than  happy, and accompany many a dinner soiree well without breaking any new ground.

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