Rico Toto – Fwa Épi Sajès

Originally released on CD-only in 1993, Fwa Épi Sajès is a stunning “electro-ka” album from keyboardist Rico Toto. Somewhat similar to Yellow Magic Orchestra and their re-interpretations of Japanese melodies, Rico Toto reimagines ancient Guadeloupe Gwo-ka rhythms, recorded live by the ensemble Moundjahka, with electronic synthesizers and drum machines. The resulting sound, crafted using a Akai and Ensoniq samplers, Roland drum machine, Macintosh, and various synthesizers, is like a “psychedelic, immersive digital diaspora dream state.” The tracks are all great, but “Yadadé,” in particular, is interesting with its mixing of synth-funk vocoder with traditional folk vocals and 808 drums. Opener “Jungle Meditation” is also great and hits on a sort of Jon Hassell fourth world zone with plenty of Ka Percussions and that classic brass harmonizer sound we all know and love. Reissued in 2022 by the great Invisible City out of Toronto!

Recommended – A1 Jungle Meditation, A4 Yadadé