Adebowale and the Pioneers - Kilofese (2026)

Nigerian saxophonist and vocalist Adebowale Osunnibu spent many years playing baritone saxophone in Egypt 80, the legendary band of Fela Kuti, now led by his son Seun Kuti. It is the longest-running Afrobeat band in history, and it was there that Adebowale deepened his understanding of the music he grew up with. Today, genuine Afrobeat made in his home city of Lagos is a rarity, aside from Egypt 80 itself. Adebowale decided to step forward as a writer and singer, while also working with the next generation of students in Lagos. The result is the album Kilofese: powerful vocals, cascading horn lines, and relentless grooves, from the slow-burning “AJO” to the frenzied title track “Kilofese”. The title, meaning “what do you want to do” in Yoruba, stands in direct opposition to government control. This echoes the core of the genre: Afrobeat, which set itself apart from Highlife and Funk, has always been built on rejecting the colonial legacy, government corruption, and the oppression of ordinary people. Drawing on James Brown-style funk, Yoruba musical traditions, and the ingenious drumming of Tony Allen, Fela Kuti carried these ideas to Nigeria and the world. Adebowale’s album continues that line, combining originality with the strength of the classic sound and delivering messages of freedom, culture, and joy.

Tracklist:
01-01 Adebowale and the Pioneers - African Culture [5:48]
01-02 Adebowale and the Pioneers - Kilofese [4:31]
01-03 Adebowale and the Pioneers - Unnecessary Visitor [4:35]
01-04 Adebowale and the Pioneers - AJO [5:45]
01-05 Adebowale and the Pioneers - Afro Groove [6:19]
01-06 Adebowale and the Pioneers - Kilofese (Bamia Remix) [2:25]