Released: 1982 (Reissued 2023)

Genre: Afro-funk

From: Cape Verde

Label: Sabura Records

Why you should listen: This funky, polyrhythmic and colourful gem from brothers brothers Gerard Mendes (also known as Boy Ge Mendes) and Jean-Claude Mendes is an absolute joy to listen to. From Cabo Verde but born in Dakar, Senegal, Gerard Mendes collaborated with his brother to celebrate their roots with an exquisite album. Whether it’s the funky and infectious grooves of the opener “Mitamiyo” or the high-energy guitar-driven calypso jazz funk and bossa nova of “Riqueza & Valor”, the duo really brought a myriad of sonic shades and colours to the tapestry of Cabo Verdean music, shining a light on the vibrant culture of the small, African Portuguese-speaking island county in the Atlantic. The West African grooves of “Mindelo” are also incredibly hypnotic, with their vocals oozing soul, while “Deus Qui Mi Deu” is a slower, synth-led ballad that closes the album beautifully. A true gem, and one you should definitely check out.

Reissued by Lisbon-based label Sabura Records.

The album: