Femi Kuti’s latest release No Place For My Dream goes back to the roots of the Afrobeat sound. Afrobeat founding father Fela Kuti’s chosen successor, Femi’s voice echoes its own exultant message. As Fela pioneered in the late 60s, Femi also sheds light on the rigors of his upbringing and on the injustices he and his people have endured. Released on June 25, 2013 from Knitting Factory Records, No Place For My Dream gives the Afrobeat groove a club-like flow while still maintaining its message of truth through music.
The title track has a repetitive chorus of resounding sax and pulsing percussion in the intro, which is catchy. Femi’s voice is incredibly soulful as he sings lines like, “Everyone has a dream…people smilin’ in the streets, singing the sweet song of peace. So I say, I will achieve my dream…excited so to say…but there is no place for my dream. It’s time to face reality.” The lyrics have a somber message yet the track’s vibe is upbeat. “Nothing to Show For It” is a powerful opening track with a commanding tone. Its seamless organ and percussion work are prevalent throughout making it very danceable. “Wey Our Money” has lightning fast organ work, percussion and drums in its recurring yet memorable chorus. Its tempo makes it a song that could be heard either in a club or in a movie where the lead is trying to get somewhere quick for a life or death reason. “Politics Na Big Business” has resounding organ, percussion and drums in its intro while its rhythm has both a gospel and pop beat as the song’s intensity grows as it continues. This fevered pitch makes a great club song listeners could picture dancing to alone or in a group.
No Place For My Dream from Femi Kuti blends pop, gospel and Afrobeat music together to form a new genre, which listeners can dance to along with learning something about another culture.