Flaming Drums - Olatunji

African Spiritual/Uhuru

Olatunji
Flaming Drums
Columbia Records
CL 1866
1962

Arranged and conducted by Fred Karlin. Produced by John Hammond

Here's one of those records I stumble across occasionally that, amazingly, I can not find on CD or by purchase digital download. I believe you can probably find the entire LP online. However, I post only easy to access samples here.

I have other Olatunji samples/albums posted here. All of the Olatunji LPs I've listened to, to the best of my recollection are very good, but this one is an especially good and groovy blend of African and Western forms. The record reminds me a of a good Yma Sumac LP in that, there is a uniqueness and cohesion from track to track and a sense of drama to the sound that keeps you glued to your speakers.

Side One:
Abana
African Spiritual
Uhuru

Side Two:
Mystery Of Love
Adofo
Hail The King

Music From Thunderball

Mr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

Music From Thunderball

The Sounds Of Action, Romance And Violence
Somerset SF-24700

This was a pet project of D. L. Miller/Somserset. To me it appears as if Miller fixed his name to the better Somerset albums. Frequently there are musician credits to be found on the back cover, but not here. The music plays through like Somerset's 101 Strings doing a soundtrack LP. In other words, the music isn't as space age fab as the suggestion made by the comic book cover art (sorry about the shelf worn image).

Still, the record makes for a good listen. The example posted is an extended track from the B side.

Enjoy!