V.A. Asiko Tito

"Super happy with these two amazing records, I don't think we can get much better than this. Authentically made in Lagos, they hold enormous cultural value. You can hear all this history, new and old on these two records. Amazing!" Gilles Peterson

'Two compilations of unreleased Nigerian music, produced by the iconic record shop from Lagos, Jazzhole, covering afro-funk, afrobeat, palm wine, juju and highlife.

The first album Eroya is a collective of elder and young musicians based in the heart of Lagos which takes you on a journey dating back from the late 1940s to contemporary Naija grooves - from palm-wine, agidigbo grooves, juju/owambe styles, highlife melodies to afro-funk and afrobeats. Key members includes Sina Ayinde Bakare, son of the legendary maestro Ayinde Bakare the originator of Juju music, Multi-instrumentalist juju singer Fatai Rolling Dollar, Afro-funk tenor saxophonist Prince Eju Oyewole and afrobeat pianist Duro Ikujenyo, a member of Fela Kuti’s Egypt 80 band.

The second album Asiko Tito was an ambitious project Jazzhole Records embarked on in the late 90s to capture and promote the rich tapestry of local talent from across Lagos. This 10-track compilation showcases an eclectic mix of sounds ranging from afrobeat and Yoruba-funk to afrofunk, highlife and spiritual jazz. Each track is a testament to the vibrant music scene blending traditional rhythms with contemporary influences to create a unique listening experience that resonates with both nostalgia and modernity. The album features renowned producers and musicians who have made significant contributions to these music genres.

“Listeners can expect to embark on a sonic journey where infectious grooves meet funkified melodies. These releases are a must listen for anyone who appreciates the fusion of genres and the power of music to connect and inspire.” Olakunle Tejuoso, Jazzhole Lagos

Nestled in the heart of Lagos, Jazzhole stands as a revered cultural institution with over 30 years of history. Led by Olakunle Tejuoso and his son Olakunle Junior, Jazzhole has evolved far beyond its origins as a record store, becoming a cornerstone of Lagos’ vibrant art scene. Specialising in black music that spans African and Afro-diasporic genres, Jazzhole is deeply committed to celebrating and promoting local talent and Nigerian music.'

Faaji Agba Eroya