Fela Kuti - Zombie

Zombie was the most popular and impactful record that Fela Kuti & Africa 70 would ever record. It ignited the nation to follow Fela's lead and antagonize the military zombies that had the population by the throat.

Fela Kuti is direct and humorous in his attack as he barks out commands to the soldiers like: "Attention! Double up! Fall In! Fall out! Fall down! Get ready!" Meanwhile, his choir responds with "Zombie!" in between each statement. Since the groove was so absolutely contagious, it took the nation by storm: People in the street would put on a blank stare and walk with hands affront proclaiming "Zombie!" whenever they would see soldiers.

If "Zombie" caught the attention of the populous it also caught the attention of the authority figures - this would cause devastating personal and professional effects, as the Nigerian government came down on him with absolute brute force not long after the release of this record.

Also included are "Monkey Banana" a laid-back groove that showcases drummer Tony Allen's mastery of the Afro-beat, and "Everything Scatter", a standard mid-tempo romp.

Official vinyl edition produced by Knitting Factory Records in 2024.