The superb Analog Africa label has recently released an expansive 2xLP retrospective on Beninese legend and “The King of Modern Agbadja,” Gnonnas Pedro, titled Roi De L’Agbadja Moderne 1974-1983.

This new release, in a way, follows in the footsteps of Analog Africa’s remarkable 2009 compilation, Legends of Benin, which featured four songs from Gnonnas. This definitive collection features 16-tracks spanning a decade worth of musical output when Gnonnas put out recordings with Nigeria labels African Songs Ltd and Take Your Choice (TYC), and later his own label Gnoinsopé.

During this period, his backing group, Les Dadjes, saw very little turnover in members, and resulted in a tight knit group musically. The various masterpieces the band recorded between 1975 and 1980 in Lagos catapulted Gnonnas to superstardom back home in Benin, but also made him a name in other West African countries, where his songs were regularly broadcast on the national airwaves. Sometimes called ‘The Band That Speaks All African Languages’ for their ability to perform songs in numerous languages ‘Les Dadjes’ also spoke all kinds of rhythms, with a special emphasis on Cuban and Benin rhythms that created unique soulful Afro-fusion groove. 

Brilliant from start to finish, this gatefold vinyl release also includes a full-color 8-page booklet with photos and insights. It’s great to finally see a well-crafted retrospective celebrating one of Benin’s most iconic artists.

Gnonnas Pedro & His Dadjes Band — ‘Roi De L’Agbadja Moderne 1974-1983’
(Analog Africa)

1. Dadje Von O Von Non “83”
2. Azo Nkplon Doun Nde
3. Mo Ngbadun Re
4. Fini Les Pavés
5. Feso Jaiye
6. Adigbedoto
7. Tu Es Tout Seul
8. Yiri Yiri Boum
9. Agbadja Moderne No2
10. Manzanillo
11. L’Indomptable Gnonnas
12. Bailando Mi Solo
13. Gbeto Enon Mon
14. El Cochechivo
15. Ati Mawuin Dagamasi
16. Avivogbe

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• African
• Compilation
• Reissue