After a string of standout 7inch releases, Berlin-based Philophon label has released the long-awaited and much anticipated full-length album from Ghanaian Frafra-gospel singers Alogte Oho & His Sounds Of Joy.

Philophon label boss Max Weissenfeldt first heard the Northern Ghana singer when he visited Bolgatanga, the capital of Frafra in 2013. At this point Oho had already released a few albums, however was largely unknown outside of his own community. Weissenfeldt was so impressed by the singer’s vocals that he immediately sought out to meet him, and after a short introduction, they agreed to do some recordings together. After Oho put together his group Sounds of Joy, they recorded and released the global hit single “Zota Yinne” in 2014, and a newer version of “Mam Yinne Wa” in 2016 (originally recorded for an album in 2012).

Three years following Oho’s last forty-five single release for the label, the African gospel singer, backed by his Sounds of Joy group, Weissenfeldt’s brilliant production and some German session players, the long-awaited full-length album, titled Mam Yinne Wa has finally been released. This incredible nine-track recording features a unique blending of traditional Ghanaian styles, highlife grooves, African funk, heavy dub rhythms, soulful harmonizing vocals, and electronics. 

Even though it took sometime to see the project fully realized, the wait was well worth it as this full-length recording delivers on all expectations. Mam Yinne Wa is a uniquely original and forward-thinking album, and an absolute must-own for fans of West African music.

Alogte Oho & His Sounds Of Joy — ‘Mam Yinne Wa’
(Philophon)

1. Mam Yinne Wa
2. Allema Timba
3. Sandana Fom
4. Zota Yinne
5. Fom Se Mam
6. Yu Ya Yumma
7. Ma’algo
8. La Ta’aba
9. Sala An Songa

BUY RECORD

• African
• Tropical Grooves