Musical Journey to West Africa: New Releases from Florence Adooni, Vaudou Game, and Defmaa Maadef
West Africa’s vibrant music scene continues to captivate audiences worldwide, and this week, we proudly present three exceptional new releases from the region: albums by Florence Adooni (Ghana) and Vaudou Game (Togo), and an EP of remixes by the rap duo Defmaa Maadef (Senegal).
1. "Vocalize My Luv" by Florence Adooni
Hailing from Kumasi, Ghana, Florence Adooni is poised to release her international debut album, A.O.E.I.U. (An Ordinary Exercise in Unity), on February 28. The album is slated for release on the German label Philophon, managed by producer Max Weissenfeldt, who discovered Adooni’s talent through her 2013 album, Da Sake.
Adooni’s captivating vocals soar over a fusion of highlife, frafra gospel (a genre rooted in her ethnic heritage), and disco. The first single, Vocalize My Luv, originally a collaboration with Finnish musician Jimi Tenor, has been reimagined by Adooni and her band. This vibrant track sets the tone for an album that seamlessly blends futurity with vintage charm.
2. "Râler" by Vaudou Game (feat. Clara Serra Lopez)
Over a decade since their debut, Vaudou Game continues to inject infectious energy into the global music landscape. The Togolese collective’s fifth album, Fintou, was released in mid-January, with Râler serving as its lead single.
True to Vaudou Game’s signature style, Râler weaves together highlife and funk, with a touch of cumbia thanks to the enchanting vocals of British-Spanish singer Clara Serra Lopez. The album also features a collaboration with the up-and-coming Togolese trio Lomevio on the track Tu sauras.
3. "Kalanakh" by Defmaa Maadef (King Doudou Remix)
Senegalese rappers Mamy Victory and Defa, known as Defmaa Maadef, have released only one EP to date (Oh Maliko, 2023). However, their undeniable talent has already garnered attention from some of the finest DJs and beatmakers on the Afro scene.
For the Kalanakh Remixs EP, released on February 7, Lyon-based label Blanc Manioc called upon a stellar lineup of remixers, including Congolese DJ P2N, French beatmaker King Doudou (known for his work with PNL and Jul), Brazilian producer Pedro Bertho, French artist La Dame, and Belgian-Congolese Mambele. This EP offers a fresh perspective on the duo’s powerful flow, showcasing their versatility and global appeal.
Musical Journey into West Africa
These new releases offer a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse musical tapestry of West Africa. They showcase the transformative power of collaboration, the blending of traditional and contemporary influences, and the boundless creativity that continues to emerge from this captivating corner of the world.
Essential Listening:
- Florence Adooni: Vocalize My Luv
- Vaudou Game: Râler (feat. Clara Serra Lopez)
- Defmaa Maadef: Kalanakh (King Doudou Remix)
Full Playlist:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of West Africa with our exclusive playlist on YouTube.
