One of the most popular Nigerian highlife groups during the 1970s and 80s was the Oriental Brothers International Band. Hailing from from eastern Nigeria (or Igboland according to some) the Oriental Brothers was actually three different groups over a period of about 20 years. The original group was probably the most famous and, if you ask me, the best.

The name of today’s track, “Awka Uwa”, is Igbo for “lamenting life” (thanks, Dulue). This doesn’t make sense to me since the guys sound pretty happy in the song, though I guess life wasn’t so hot for an Igbo in post-Biafra Nigeria. Either way, it’s a great tune from the original Oriental Brothers. Don’t worry – no cut-offs or fade-outs this time.

If you like the track you can get it on several best-ofs or on the album Nwa Ada Di Nma.

ps- Special thanks to Bill for e-mailing me a great Congolese track today. I’m always up for direct trades so feel free to send me an e-mail or comment.

Oriental Brothers – Akwa Uwa