Wagram France Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Things were different back in 2001 and the dance music world was less attuned to the responsibilities it has towards the marginalised communities that birthed the genre back in the 80s. For that reason, it's unlikely any new compilation featuring music by mostly white artists would be called Africanism Allstars these days, but alas that was the case with this collection when it was originally released. Title aside, the music stands up with a chunky house sound and plenty of tribal grooves featuring big names like DJ Gregory, Martin Solveig, Bob Sinclair and Soga amongst others.

Review: French label Wagram knows a thing or two about putting out superb compilations that take a widescreen look at a diverse array of genres. For this latest double album release it carries on in its Africanism series with a second volume of house sounds with an Afro undertone. French legend Bob Sinclair appears several times with his lavish house sounds, and countryman Martin Solveig brings the heat with 'Heartbeat', a bright, prickly and vocal jam with plenty of irresistible hooks. It's a great collection of party-ready sounds.

Review: French label Wagram is a go-to when it comes to quality compilations that take a broad look at certain sounds and scenes, and this one is an on-going series that focuses on house sounds with an Afro undertone. The grooves are lively and often come with plenty of percussion. The drums hit hard but with funk, the vocals are Afro-centric and plenty of irresistible hits come thick and fast from the jazzy tribal swagger of 'Imbalaye' to the big steel drum party sounds of 'Viet Dao' (Klement Bonelli & Yann DL remix). Another great collection of colourful Afro house sounds.