What makes Somewhere in Afrika by Manfred Mann's Earth Band notable?

This album is notable for its direct engagement with issues surrounding apartheid in South Africa, particularly highlighted in the track 'Redemption Song (No Kwazulu)', which pays homage to Bob Marley’s original. It received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of rock and world music, contributing to a broader awareness of socio-political issues in rock music during the early 1980s. By the time 'Somewhere in Afrika' was released in 1983, Manfred Mann's Earth Band was already established, coming off their successful album 'Chance' from 1980. This record marked a shift towards incorporating global influences, as they explored themes of social justice and cultural identity, reflecting an artistic evolution within the band's discography.

Who is Somewhere in Afrika for?

Somewhere in Afrika works well if you're into melodic depth with rhythmic variety, socially conscious themes explored and short tracks for quick engagement.

How many songs are on Somewhere in Afrika?

Somewhere in Afrika has 12 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Somewhere in Afrika

Manfred Mann's Earth Band · 1983

53 min · 12 tracks · progressive rock

A fusion of progressive rock and African rhythms, blending melodic depth with socially conscious themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Redemption Song (No Kwazulu) — This track reinterprets a classic while addressing the struggles against oppression, making it a poignant centerpiece of the album's message.
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Demolition Man — The opening track sets an urgent tone with its driving beats and sharp lyrics, encapsulating the album's thematic focus on societal decay and renewal.
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Africa Suite: Brothers and Sisters of Africa / To Bantustan? / Koze Kobenini? / Brothers and Sisters of Azania — This ambitious suite showcases the band's ability to weave complex musical narratives that reflect African heritage and contemporary issues.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

melodic depth with rhythmic variety
socially conscious themes explored
short tracks for quick engagement
dynamic shifts in pacing
immersive thematic exploration

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward structures
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Somewhere in Afrika' was released in 1983, Manfred Mann's Earth Band was already established, coming off their successful album 'Chance' from 1980. This record marked a shift towards incorporating global influences, as they explored themes of social justice and cultural identity, reflecting an artistic evolution within the band's discography.
Stylistic neighbors: Yes· Genesis· Camel

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Demolition Man 3:42
2 Runner 4:42
3 Rebel 3:55
4 Eyes of Nostradamus 3:20
5 Third World Service 3:28
6 Somewhere in Africa 1:36
7 Tribal Statistics 4:14
8 Lalela 1:33
9 Redemption Song (No Kwazulu) 4:15
10 Africa Suite: Brothers and Sisters of Africa / To Bantustan? / Koze Kobenini? / Brothers and Sisters of Azania 9:58
11 Third World Service (long version) 5:18
12 Redemption Song (No Kwazulu) (long version) 7:38

What to play next

Listen next

Budapest

1984

Go back to

Chance

1980

Full Manfred Mann's Earth Band discography Artists like Manfred Mann's Earth Band

progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata