COMPOSERS: Various
LABELS: British Library/Topic
ALBUM TITLE: Various
PERFORMER: Various musicians
CATALOGUE NO: TSCD 936
The British Library collection’s effete title, poetry and languid charm, originates in a recordist’s description of Mombasa c1950. It’s a melting pot of an experience featuring Egyptian vocals, Indian percussion, Arabian unison strings and more, in combinations that had evolved in coastal East Africa’s trading history.
Focused by the pressure of fitting 78 rpm sides, these compact, powerful performances still make their mark.