Mombasa - African Rhythms & Blues (1975)

Get ready to be transported to the heart of Africa with Mombasa’s groundbreaking debut album, “African Rhythms & Blues.“ Led by the visionary trombonist Lou Blackburn, this pioneering ensemble blends the vibrant rhythms of the continent with the soulful sounds of jazz to create a mesmerizing musical tapestry that defies categorization. Recorded in 1975 at Cornet Studio in Cologne, Germany, “African Rhythms & Blues“ captures the essence of Mombasa’s electrifying live performances. From the infectious groove of “Nairobi“ to the hypnotic pulse of “Shango,“ each track on this essential album is a testament to the band’s unparalleled talent and creativity. Featuring a lineup of world-class musicians, including Donald Coleman on congas and bamboo flute, Charles Jefferson on trumpet and flugelhorn, Gerald Luciano on electric bass and percussion, and Cephus McGirt on drums, Mombasa delivers a spellbinding fusion of African rhythms and jazz improvisation that will leave you breathless. Originally released on the legendary German label Spiegelei, “African Rhythms & Blues“ quickly became a cult classic among collectors and aficionados of afro jazz. Now, thanks to the meticulous efforts of producer Ekkehart Fleischhammer and the studio wizards at DMS, this long-lost gem is available once again, remastered from the original tapes and presented in all its glory. So dim the lights, turn up the volume, and let the infectious grooves of Mombasa’s “African Rhythms & Blues“ take you on a journey to the heart of the African continent. With its intoxicating blend of rhythm, melody, and soul, this is an album that will captivate your senses and leave you craving more. //