The Apostles – Black Is Beautiful – New LP

​Simply wonderful set from 1977, filled to the gills with soulful laidback grooves, perhaps inspired by at least some of the following possible influences: other African outfits, West Indies music, soul jazz, gospel music, and American bands such as Sly & the Family Stone, Bill Withers, Johnny Nash, Dobie Gray, Bobby Womack, and mid-70s Isley Brothers.  Over the decades, I've come across several African albums that process this type of inviting groove, but few maintain the charm through two sides of a long-player.-- winch 

"East Nigerian act, mostly known for their mid '70's/early eighties folky pop hits.  They started out as an unruly highlife-and-Congo music bar band and transformed into a rugged soul outfit."

"Heaven sent from Nigeria’s tumultuous east, The Apostles have been preaching a particular blend of funky psychedelic soul/rock fusion for over forty years.  The players in the rhythm section, Henry Asu Tandu, Chicago Nwoha and Harrison Mba, are tight...keeping their heads so everyone else can lose theirs. Of course, you don’t stay successful as long as The Apostles without giving the audience what they want...almost a religious experience."

Bass Guitar [Fender Bass] – Henry Asu Tandu

Congas – Chicago Woha

 Design – Harrigan Ebere C.

Drums – Joel Madubuike

Engineer [Mastering] – Ayoade

Engineer [Recording & Mastering] – K. Salami

Engineer [Recording] – M. Oki

Guitar – Walton Arungwa

Lead Vocals – Chyke Fussion Okoro

Liner Notes – Harri Ebere. C.

Organ – Benjamin Nnamdi Davidson

Producer – Pal Akalonu

Rhythm Guitar – Harrison Mba

Vocals – Murphy Ekong Williams