Never thought I'd see this get a reissue, but stoked to see it back in print (now I can finally own a copy)! William Onyeabor's 1985 album Anything You Sow is no easy find in the field and catches a good price on the 'bay when it does pop up (which is next to never), but it's not just one of those rare records for rarities sake. It's actually very unique for its time and sounds way different from most "rare Nigerian" records you'll see reissued these days. If you couldn't tell from the album cover, synthesizers play a massive role in the album and give it an eclectic afro-electro-disco-soul feel. Check the sound on the feel good 12 minute opener "When The Going Is Smooth And Good" which was actually recently rediscovered and put on an Essential mix by Four Tet and sampled by Caribou. "This Kind Of World" comes next and keeps things uptempo with lo-fi electronic percussion, while the flipside of the album slows it down with the title track and the lovely ballad "Everyday." Truly amazing music throughout, don't miss it! Recommended.

• music label: Wilfilms Records 1985 / Luaka Bop 2015

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 06/2011