VA - Authenticité - The Syliphone Years - Guinea's Orchestres Nationaux And Federaux 1965-1980 [2CD Set] (2007)

When the French colonial administration pulled out of Guinea in 1958, they took everything: all their medicines, blueprints to the electricity grid, furniture, telephones, even the cutlery. It seemed that the passionate cry of soon-to-be president, Sekou Toure - made while addressing a public rally and standing right next to De Gaulle - of ''we prefer freedom in poverty to riches in chains'' had become more true than perhaps even he had hoped.

Undaunted and with optimism and vigour, the new government set about rebuilding the country. They established a campaign that encouraged artists to create new works, but based on traditional African roots. The policy was called authenticite, music was its focus and Syliphone its record label. Thus Syliphone found itself in the right place at the right time - a special moment in African history when a new nation asserted itself and placed music at the forefront of its identity.

This 2CD set Authenticite - the Syliphone Years features gems from their catalogue, most of which are on CD for the first time, and gives you an insight into the incredible energy of the times. All the great bands are here, with key songs from such legendaries as Bembeya Jazz National, Keletigui et ses Tambourinis, and Balla et ses Balladins. Also here are rare recordings from their contemporaries such as Syli Authentic, and Kebendo Jazz; groups that battled for honours against more than 30 others in Guinea's renowned arts festivals, where a 1st Prize could launch a band to stardom.

Times like these can't last - and they didn't. But while they did, the party was jumping and the music was glorious.

This deluxe package contains 2 CDs and a 44-page illustrated booklet with comprehensive notes by renowned expert on Guinean music Graeme Counsel.

Includes some of the most important recordings together with rare and previously unreleased tracks.