Ayub Ogada - Kothbiro (Real World Gold)

"En Mana Kuoyo" is part of series 2 of the Real World Gold re-issued albums - released 30th July.

Kenyan singer-songwriter Ayub Ogada was a busker on the Northern Line when he came to Real World’s attention in the late ’80s. And this 1993 set – his only record for the label – proved that it was a meeting of minds, with his disarmingly simple arrangements, allowed to hang there unadorned, making a lasting impression. Simply backing himself (albeit with virtuosic ease) on an East African lyre called a nyatiti, this record introduced Ayub as a performer of great charm, his warm vocals never leaving centre stage.
“A haunting, spiritual quality that is reflective, intimate, introspective and demonstrates an extraordinary sensitivity to dynamics” – Folk Roots