Album Review: Ase by King Sunny Adé And His African Beats
King Sunny Adé’s 1984 release, Ase, is a genre-blurring masterpiece that feels like a passport stamp for your ears. With its mix of Pop, Funk/Soul, Electronic, Folk, World, and Country vibes, this album doesn’t just sit in one lane—it owns the whole highway. Released on Island Records (and Polystar in Japan), it’s a project that showcases Adé’s knack for weaving traditional Yoruba rhythms with modern production techniques. If you’re into music that makes you move while also making you think, this one’s worth a spin.
The standout track, “Kini M’Baro,” hits hard right outta the gate. It’s got this hypnotic groove that locks you in—Adé’s guitar work dances over layered percussion like it’s telling a story only he understands. The rhythm section feels alive, almost conversational, and by the time the horns kick in, you’re fully sold. It’s not just a song; it’s an experience. You can tell Godwin Logie’s mixing magic plays a big role here, giving every instrument room to breathe without losing the tightness of the arrangement. This track sticks with me because it’s impossible not to nod your head to it. Seriously, try listening without tapping your foot—I dare ya.
Then there’s “Ase-Bonus Beats,” which flips the vibe entirely. It’s more experimental, leaning into electronic textures while keeping that signature Afrobeat pulse. Producer Martin Meissonier clearly had fun pushing boundaries here, blending synthesizers with live instrumentation in ways that feel fresh even today. What I love about this cut is how it stretches the definition of what African music could sound like in the '80s. It’s playful but still rooted, a reminder that innovation doesn’t mean abandoning tradition.
Design-wise, Animal House nails the cover art—it’s bold and colorful, kinda like the music itself. And let’s give props to King Sunny Adé as both writer and producer. Dude wasn’t just phoning it in; he was crafting something timeless.
Reflecting on Ase, it’s wild to think how ahead of its time this record was. In an era when Western pop dominated charts, Adé brought global sounds to countries like Japan and the US, proving that good music transcends borders. But honestly? My favorite part might be realizing how much joy this album spreads. Like, who else could make Bonus Beats sound so… essential? If you haven’t heard Ase yet, do yourself a favor and dive in. Just don’t blame me if you end up dancing through your next Zoom meeting.
