Roots Renaissance: Jangbalajugbu

'One of the best things to have happened to contemporary music in Nigeria... a rare creator of rich sounds and a gifted performer.' (Steve Ayorinde, The Punch, January 21, 2005) 'Nigeria's King of Melody!' (Chux Ohai, National Mirror, September 1, 2006) Beautiful Nubia is one of the leading lights of new Nigerian music. With his 14-member Roots Renaissance Band, he fuses ancient Yoruba folk rhythms and contemporary urban influences to create a highly original and engaging blend that is solidified by exceptional songwriting and sweet, soulful vocals. Performed in both English and Yoruba, the songs are loaded with universal social and political messages. Beautiful Nubia has been described as, 'One of those who have come to redeem the image of traditional African music'- The Vanguard (Nigeria, 2001). JANGBALAJGB, BN's third music album, was recorded at the historic Afrodisia (Decca) Studios in April/May 2002 and features 13 songs written in Yoruba and English and arranged by Beautiful Nubia (Segun Akinlolu). It was recorded live to multitrack - a conscious decision by Beautiful Nubia as a throwback to the sounds of the 1970's, a beautiful decade for Nigerian music. The album showcases the exceptional songwriting talent of the artist, as well as his sweet, soulful vocals, and highlights the dexterity of his youthful 14-member Roots Renaissance Band. It is also a testament to the experience and versatility of the audio engineering crew led by seasoned Johnson Ademilokun. The 13 songs on the album exemplify the strong, positive message-music that Beautiful Nubia is becoming known for. All the songs address issues of concern to the common people: 'The Small People's Anthem' contrasts how common Nigerians live in comparison to the excess wealth of their leaders while the first track, 'How do you do? (Owuro L'ojo)', is a song of inspiration. Owuro L'ojo is a Yoruba saying that means 'The morning makes the day' - that every day is a fresh start, every opportunity a new beginning. Many of the other songs, like 'Seven Lifes', celebrate African culture, values and spirituality. The analog recording is earthy and subdued and has a bittersweet effect on the ear. The listener can imagine that they are hearing, for the first time, music from the past and yet, there is nothing static about BN's music. The style is refreshingly new.