Expensive Shit
Fela Kuti · 1975
24 min · 2 tracks · jazz · Afrobeat · highlife
A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and traditional African rhythms that pulses with political fervor.
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album solidified Fela Kuti's reputation and addressed political issues, gaining wider recognition.
- Themes
- political resistance· Nigerian corruption· social commentary· cultural identity
- Career context
- By the time 'Expensive Shit' was released in December 1975, Fela Kuti had already established himself as a pioneering force in Afrobeat with previous albums like 'Zombie'. This album followed his controversial run-ins with the Nigerian government, showcasing both his resilience and his commitment to addressing social issues through music. It was a continuation of his artistic evolution, blending complex rhythms with incisive lyrics.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tony Allen· Antibalas· Orlando Julius
- If this clicks, go next to
- Water No Get Enemy — Continues the vibrant energy and political themes from Expensive Shit.
- Sounds like this from elsewhere
-
Hope by Hugh Masekela — Combines jazz with African sounds, addressing political struggles and cultural identity, similar to Kuti's approach.The Shape of Jazz to Come by Ornette Coleman — Explores unconventional structures and improvisation, paralleling Kuti's innovative fusion of genres and social commentary.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Expensive Shit 13:14
- 2 Water No Get Enemy 11:06
What to play next
This album is considered a Breakthrough in Fela Kuti's catalog. This album solidified Fela Kuti's reputation and addressed political issues, gaining wider recognition.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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