Album Review: Alex Sab by Alex Sab – A Hidden Gem from 1979
Released in 1979 under BOB International Records/Fancy, Alex Sab by Alex Sab is a vibrant journey into the rich tapestry of African music. Rooted firmly in the Folk, World, & Country genre with Highlife influences, this Nigerian masterpiece stands as a testament to its time while offering timeless appeal. Produced in an era when vinyl records were still king, it’s no surprise that this album carries a warm, nostalgic charm.
The album opens with “Obiara Me Me Do,” a track that instantly grabs your attention with its infectious rhythm and layered instrumentation. The percussion feels alive, almost like it's pulling you into a lively village celebration. If you're anything but tapping your feet or nodding along within seconds, then there might be something wrong with ya! What makes this song memorable isn’t just its groove; it’s how seamlessly Alex Sab blends traditional highlife vibes with modern touches. It’s one of those tracks that sticks with you—not because it tries too hard, but because it flows so naturally.
Another standout is “Medofo Bra.” This tune takes things down a notch, letting the listener soak in its soulful melody. The vocals here are smooth, almost conversational, as though Alex Sab is sharing a story only he knows. Paired with gentle guitar riffs and subtle brass accents, it creates an atmosphere that’s both reflective and uplifting. You can almost picture the sun setting over Lagos while listening to this one—it’s got that cinematic quality without needing any visuals.
Credit for the sound goes to Engineer Ndubuisi Nnaji, who clearly knew what he was doing back in the day. And let’s not forget Cyril Obieze Jr., whose design work likely gave the album cover its distinct look (though, sadly, I haven’t seen it myself). These behind-the-scenes heroes helped bring Sab’s vision to life, ensuring every note hit just right.
Tracks like “Wohu Odasami A Suro Mo” and “Soantie” further showcase Alex Sab’s versatility, blending upbeat energy with introspective moments. But honestly, it’s the cohesion of the entire project that leaves a lasting impression. There’s a raw authenticity here—something missing in today’s overly polished productions.
Reflecting on Alex Sab, it strikes me how albums like this often get lost in the shuffle of history. Sure, names like Fela Kuti dominate discussions about Nigerian music from the ‘70s, but digging deeper reveals treasures like this one. It’s kinda wild to think about how much great music never gets the recognition it deserves. Maybe that’s part of its magic, though—the idea that some art stays untouched, waiting patiently for curious ears to stumble upon it decades later.
If you’re into African music or simply looking for something refreshingly different, do yourself a favor and check out Alex Sab. Just don’t blame me if you end up playing “Obiara Me Me Do” on repeat all weekend—you’ve been warned!
