Femi Kuti’s latest album revitalizes classic Afrobeat with fresh political commentary

Femi Kuti’s latest album, Journey Through Life, marks a powerful return after a six-year solo hiatus, excluding a collaborative work with his son, Made. The album rejuvenates Kuti’s classic Afrobeat style by revisiting and strengthening past hits while incorporating fresh political commentary and introspection.

Standout track “Chop and Run” revisits Fela Kuti’s “Unknown Soldier,” confronting Nigerian corruption with biting satire. “After 24 Years” updates lyrics to critique failed civilian leadership, including neglect of national infrastructure and political hypocrisy. Other revitalized tracks like “Corruption Na Stealing” and “Shotan” showcase enhanced instrumentation and intensity. Though introspective songs such as “Work On Myself” carry more generic messages, the album’s title track combines heartfelt themes with some of Kuti’s most vibrant Afrobeat sounds.

The album was recorded at the Legacy Plus studio in Nigeria, founded by the Kuti family, and produced by Femi Kuti himself. The production might leave a little to be desired, sounding more like a live record than one with studio polish, but that takes nothing from the musicianship, the performance, and the quality of the recording. Journey Through Life really lends itself to hi-fi listening but misses the saturated mastering (or audience sounds) that might bring a little more life to the record. (silentradio.co.uk)

Femi Kuti’s Journey Through Life underscores his ability to fuse legacy with innovation, delivering an album that is both reflective and explosively urgent. The release, issued by Partisan Records, earns four stars. (ft.com)