Fela Kuti - Original Sufferhead / I.T.T. (CD)

This double album collects the original Original Suffer Head album and I.T.T. from 1980 and 1982.

Original Suffer Head, from 1982 (not to be confused with the 1984-ish Shanachie re-release of Black President by the same title), stands as the first release from Fela Kuti's new Egypt 80 band. At this point, the compositions are still relatively tight and riff-heavy.

The music is getting a bit more complex, but not so much as would be notable later. The album makes criticism of the lack of basic necessities for African citizens, despite a wealth at the time from oil deposits. Surprisingly in this album, there are no personal accusations made -- just general statements.

The accompanying laid-back "Power Show" hearkens back to the lyrics of the '70s, wherein he simply mocks lower-grade officials. This time through, he makes fun of various civil servants flexing their authoritarian muscles for respect.

The second included album is I.T.T., a direct attack upon the then-president of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, and International Telephone and Telegraph head M.K.O. Abiola. The attacks were direct and to the point: These high level officials were in collusion with foreign business and exploiting the average African. Musically, one can note a small progression toward the deeper sound of the '80s.