Sound d'Afrique II: Soukous [Mango, 1982] "Soukous" is a word understood throughout French-speaking Africa (the source of this album). It simply means: going out, checking the music, dancing and, cool or passionate, having the Best Time." As in juking, say. But also as in the slang term for the Congolese style that dominates the continent's pop--which this features, thus avoiding the eclectic distractions of Mango's first Afropop collection. Salsafied stuff with vocals that sometimes float sweet and high and sometimes twist and shout, none of it by big-name stars. In short, an African disco compilation. Nice. A-
Jeff Louna (born Joseph Lounana, 1948–2018) was a legendary Congolese guitarist and singer known for blending jazz with traditional rumba. A pioneer who co-founded the Jungle Trio, he captivated audiences across Africa and Europe before spending his later years performing and teaching in France.
