WOYAYA

OSIBISA's second album released in the same year as the debut (1971) is a definite improvement.This is more mature as that party atmosphere from the debut is all but gone.To my ears they seemed to focus more on making serious instrumentals and they have succeeded in a big way because they sound incredible. We get another Roger Dean cover in the same style as the debut.

"Beautiful Seven" opens with thunder and rain as the flute comes in followed by a beat.Vocals after 2 minutes.The tempo picks up after 4 minutes as the percussion and flute lead. Horns kick in quickly on "Y Sharp" blasting away as the percussion continues. I like when the electric piano comes in after 3 1/2 minutes.Vocals follow. Love the guitar 5 minutes in.

"Spirits Up Above" opens with organ and a relaxed sound. I like it ! Horns join in as it stays laid back.Vocals after 1 1/2 minutes.The tempo picks up with drums, piano, horns and more. Guitar 5 1/2 minutes in. Nice. So much going on here.

"Survival" has these vocal expressions as lots of percussion and drum sounds join in. Cool sound here. A change before 2 minutes as the tempo picks up.Vocal melodies and a catchy sound. Horns and organ too. A sax solo before 5 minutes.

"Move On" has a catchy beat and I like the lyrics. "Rabiatu" features bass and drums before it gets fuller. A SANTANA vibe here. Back to percussion and bass as the horns join in again. "Woyaya" is an interesting track with organ,vocals and drums leading.

Less theatrics and frills on this one and a more professional sound all translates into this being a keeper. An easy 4 stars.