Artist: African Head Charge Album: Off the Beaten Track

Year: 1986
Duration: 0:0-1

A of African Head Charge's Off the Beaten Track Album

African Head Charge is a British group that blends many genres of music, including reggae, dub, and ambient sounds. The group has been around since the 1980s but remains relatively unknown in the music world despite its significant contributions to world music. African Head Charge's album Off the Beaten Track is one of their best works, featuring a mesmerizing sound that marries traditional African music with modern electronic sounds. In this post, we'll take a critical look at the album, discuss some of its best songs, and explore its most innovative aspects.

African Head Charge: A Brief History

African Head Charge was created by drummer Bonjo Iyabinghi Noah and producer Adrian Sherwood in 1981. The group's unique sound was a fusion of African rhythms and percussion, coupled with electronic music and dub production techniques. The group members have shifted over the years, with Noah remaining the only consistent member. Off the Beaten Track, released in 1984, is one of the group's most definitive works.

Music Genre of the Album

Off the Beaten Track is an experimental and innovative album that defies easy categorization. The album combines traditional African music with modern electronic music, making it a unique blend of genres that cannot be easily pigeonholed. Some people may classify it as world music while others would describe it as electronic or ambient. The album is notable for its wide array of instruments, including traditional African percussion, keyboard, and guitar, among others.

Best Songs of the Album

One of the standout tracks on Off the Beaten Track is Fruit Market, a masterpiece that perfectly encapsulates the album's fusion of traditional African music and contemporary electronic sounds. Another notable song is Heading to Glory, which features a funky beat and catchy melody. Crocodile Hand Luggage is another standout track, featuring a mix of tribal chants, chimes, and intricate percussion and drumming that exemplifies the album's experimental approach to music-making.

Most Innovative Parts of the Album

What makes Off the Beaten Track such an innovative album is the way it blends traditional African music with modern electronic sounds. The album makes use of sampling and electronic manipulation to create a unique listening experience. The album's creative use of percussion, ambient sounds, and effects is also noteworthy, adding depth and texture to the music. Furthermore, the album's use of multiple instruments and sonic layers provide a diverse and multifaceted listening experience.

Critique of the Album

While Off the Beaten Track is undoubtedly a remarkable album, it may not appeal to everyone's tastes due to its experimental and unorthodox nature. The album's soundscapes can sometimes feel dense and overwhelming, making it a challenging listen. Furthermore, some may criticize the album for its lack of conventional song structures and hooks, which can make it feel aimless or meandering at times. However, for listeners who are open to exploring new sounds and styles, Off the Beaten Track is a fascinating and rewarding listening experience.
African Head Charge's Off the Beaten Track is an innovative and experimental album that blends traditional African music with modern electronic sounds. The album is notable for its rich textures, diverse instrumentation, and creative use of sampling and effects. Some of the standout tracks on the album include Fruit Market, Heading to Glory, and Crocodile Hand Luggage. While the album may not appeal to everyone's taste, it is a testament to the creativity and artistry of African Head Charge and their ability to push the boundaries of musical genres. Overall, Off the Beaten Track is a valuable and worthwhile addition to any music lover's collection.