Apala Messenger

Recorded at Decca West Africa Studios, Lagos, Nigeria between 1967 and 1971. Includes liner notes by Michael Veal.
Digitally remastered by Mark Guenther (Seattle Disc Mastering).
Audio Remasterer: Mark Guenther.
Liner Note Authors: Mike Veal; Andrew Frankel.
Recording information: Decca West Africa Studios, Abuleoja, Lagos, Nigeria (1967-1971).
Translator: Toyin Ajayi-Frankel.
Arranger: Haruna Ishola.
Much like Cuban Santeria and Haitian vodoun, the music of Nigeria's Yoruba tribe is believed to have mythical powers, either to heal or to curse. In Yorubaland, Chief Haruna Ishola's brand of Apala music is treated with the same reverence typically reserved for the Orishas -- the Yoruba pantheon of deities -- and it was believed that his singing was so powerful it could kill its intended recipient if not properly restrained. This compilation reveals the reasons behind Ishola's status as a national icon, with powerful praise songs that thrive on little more than throbbing percussion and Ishala's hearty baritone leading call-and-response vocals. Though Ishala passed away in 1983, this 13-song collection serves as a strong testimony to his lasting legacy. ~ Bret Love