The African Beat

by Art Blakey and The Afro-Drum Ensemble

The African Beat cover art

A groundbreaking album that saw Art Blakey stepping away from his signature hard bop sound to lead a large percussion-based ensemble. The music is a powerful and joyous celebration of the rhythms of Africa, featuring a host of master drummers and the multi-instrumental genius of Yusef Lateef. It was a pioneering effort to explore the roots of jazz in a deep and authentic way.

Genres

  • Afro-Jazz
  • Hard Bop

Tracklist

  1. Ife L'ayo (There Is Happiness in Love)
  2. Obirin African (Woman of Africa)
  3. Love, the Mystery Of
  4. Ero Ti Nr'ojeje
  5. Ayiko Ayiko (Welcome, Welcome)
  6. Tobi Ilu