Nigerian Fuji drum music showcased in new Soul Jazz album

“A combination of Sakara, Juju, Aro, Afrobeat, Gudugudu and Highlife.”

Soul Jazz records is releasing a new album by Lagos’ Nigeria Fuji Machine, on limited vinyl this July.

Synchro Sound System & Power features 7 tracks showcasing the music of master ‘Fuji’ drummers and singers.

The Fuji genre was born during Ramadan celebrations in the mid 1900s. Young men who were celebrating through the streets of Lagos at night started adding accompaniments of pots, pans, drums, bells to their improvised ‘wéré’ songs.

In the 1970s this rhythmic music which became known as Fuji, crossed over onto pop culture thanks largely to artist Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister.

While Highlife and Juju sounds achieved international recognition thanks to Fela Kuti and King Sunny Ade, Fuji remains relatively unknown outside of Nigeria.

Listen to ‘Ilu’ and check out the track list below ahead of Synchro Sound System & Power‘s 6th July release.

Tracklist

1. Iba
2. Orin Gidi
3. Ilu
4. Ẹyọ-Sẹsẹ
5. Garaje
6. Ọrọ Owe
7. Ire