Manuel, Ayo: 1983-90 (Vinyl LP)

Soundway Records presents Ayo Manuel - 1983-1990, a collection of selected works by one of Nigeria’s DIY pioneers.

Prince Ayo’s musical roots were planted deep from a young age. A prolonged stint in the choir at his church in the small town of Atijere, gave him a first taste of harmony and hard-wired music to his heart. Later, a move to the bright lights of Lagos opened his eyes and ears to everything the metropolis had to offer. Local nightclubs, radio stations and record stores exposed him to a plethora of local and foreign stars who would later become his influences.

Soundway have compiled the stand out cuts from each of his two albums, re-issued for the first time and showcasing the evolution of Ayo’s music between the two releases. Love Candidate fills side-A, led by Song Of Love (Instrumental) - mid-tempo, synth-heavy music toeing the line between lo-fi crunch and sophisticated charm. Followed closely by afro-disco melters Don’t Stop and the aptly titled Fun Time. Both with strong American, disco-funk leanings but full of Nigerian flavour, they come signed, sealed and delivered for any discerning dancefloor.

1. Song Of Love (Instrumental)
2. Fun Time
3. Don't Stop
4. Sojourn (Ajo)
5. Gboro Mi Ro
6. Do Good