Abana Ba Nasery

The musical traditions of Kenya were brought to the international stage by guitarist/vocalist Shem Tube and his band Abana Ba Nasery. Led by guitarist/vocalist Tube, the group introduced much of the world to the Kenyan tradition of omutibo, an uplifting music produced by two fingerpicked acoustic guitars and three-part vocal harmonies set to a rhythm played on a Fanta soda bottle. One of Kenya's most successful traditional groups of the 1960s and '70s, Abana Ba Nasery disbanded for more than a decade before reuniting in 1991. The revived band reflected the group members' shifting musical influences -- during the group's hiatus, Tube and guitarist/vocalist Justo Osala had performed with an electric banga band, les Bunyore. Their fascination with contemporary music continued following their re-formation. While their debut album, Classic Acoustic Recordings of Western Kenya, showcased the sound of the original acoustic trio, their second effort, Go Ahead, was much more produced. Recorded while the trio was on tour in Europe, the album introduced bagpipes, slide guitar, banjo, and whistle to their sound. Guests on the album included Chopper and Alan Prosser of Oysterband, Hijaz, and Expen$ive Mustapha of 3 Mustaphas 3 and Ron Kavana. ~ Craig Harris, All Music Guide