Somewhere in Afrika cover

Somewhere in Afrika

Manfred Mann's Earth Band · 1983

53 min · 12 tracks · progressive rock

A fusion of progressive rock and world music rhythms, exploring themes of Africa with a bold, eclectic sound.

Somewhere in Afrika is an album by Manfred Mann's Earth Band, released in 1983. A fusion of progressive rock and world music rhythms, exploring themes of Africa with a bold, eclectic sound. The album is notable for its incorporation of African musical elements within a rock framework, reflecting the global influences that were becoming more prominent in the music scene during the early 1980s. Its lead single, 'Demolition Man,' gained attention not just for its sound but also for its commentary on societal issues, and it has been covered by various artists, illustrating its enduring impact. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Somewhere in Afrika sound like?

A fusion of progressive rock and world music rhythms, exploring themes of Africa with a bold, eclectic sound. Rooted in progressive rock.

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

The album is notable for its incorporation of African musical elements within a rock framework, reflecting the global influences that were becoming more prominent in the music scene during the early 1980s. Its lead single, 'Demolition Man,' gained attention not just for its sound but also for its commentary on societal issues, and it has been covered by various artists, illustrating its enduring impact. By the time 'Somewhere in Afrika' was released in November 1983, Manfred Mann's Earth Band had already established themselves as a significant force in progressive rock. This album followed their critically acclaimed work 'Chance' from 1980 and marked a continued exploration of socially conscious themes through their music, particularly focusing on African issues.

How many songs are on Somewhere in Afrika?

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

Tracklist

12 tracks·53:39

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

  • 1 Demolition Man Standout 3:42
  • 2 Runner 4:42
  • 3 Rebel 3:55
  • 4 Eyes of Nostradamus Standout 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) Standout 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

Release Date

November 14, 1983

Genre

progressive rock

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Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

53 min 39 sec