The Source
Tony Allen · 2017
64 min · 11 tracks · reggae
A vibrant fusion of intricate rhythms and soulful melodies that epitomizes the essence of modern Afrobeat.
Top tracks — play these first
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Moody Boy — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its hypnotic groove and complex percussion, embodying Allen's innovative style and musical depth.
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Woro Dance — With its infectious rhythms and celebratory spirit, this track exemplifies Allen's ability to fuse traditional African sounds with modern influences, making it an instant dancefloor favorite.
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Cruising — The alluring blend of jazz-inflected instrumentation and Allen’s signature drumming creates an immersive soundscape that highlights his unique approach to rhythm and melody.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The Source showcases intricate rhythms and blends traditional Afrobeat with modern influences, marking it as a distinctive work.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the Afrobeat tradition.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- vibrant rhythms for dancing
- sophisticated grooves for gatherings
- reflective moments with energy
- afternoon relaxation with friends
Maybe skip if you
- prefer quick, catchy tracks
- seek minimalistic soundscapes
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When Tony Allen released The Source in 2017, he was already a revered figure in world music, recognized for his foundational role in crafting Afrobeat alongside Fela Kuti. This album came out shortly after his acclaimed collaboration with Damon Albarn on the album 'The Good, the Bad & the Queen,' marking a continued evolution in his sound and artistic vision.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Moody Boy 6:33
- 2 Bad Roads 5:48
- 3 Cruising 6:02
- 4 On Fire 6:17
- 5 Woro Dance 6:39
- 6 Tony's Blues 5:00
- 7 Wolf Eats Wolf 5:37
- 8 Cool Cats 4:22
- 9 Push and Pull 5:57
- 10 Ewajo 5:35
- 11 Life Is Beautiful 6:27
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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