'Molokai' is Papa Wemba's third album with Real World, (and also the name of his international band). This live studio performance from one of Africa's greatest stars is a collection of classic hits and new songs, produced by John Leckie, reflecting this stage of Wemba's musical odyssey. "I'm reprising songs that date back five, ten, fifteen years," Wemba explains of the new work. "In 'Molokai' there are five Africans and five Europeans. It's an enlarged, international vision of the music."
'Thirty-odd years in music and conspicuously the coolest man on the planet...Wemba's albums have never captured the full kinetic joy of his gigs. Until now.'
'...recorded with startling clarity by British rock producer John Leckie...the album will remind longtime fans of the depth of his [Wemba's] songwriting and vocal talents. For newcomers to the Wemba club, Molokai offers a glimpse of the artist's canon in a contemporary setting.'
Press review from: Billboard (USA)
Precise phrasing, glorious swoops from mid to top range, breath-defying runs along the scale and a rolling rhythmic style full of richness. In short, as accomplished a singer as you’ll hear...The live studio performance gives a bright urgent feel...
October 1998
Press review from: Rock ‘n’ Reel
(UK)
... includes irresistible soukous ‘Sakana’; funky, brassy ‘Image’; soul-jazzy ‘Epelo’; and luxurious ballad ‘Awa Y’Okeyi.
September 1998
Press review from: Dj Magazine
(UK)
Uplifting, warm, postitive feelings that initially jump from the heart of Papa Wemba’s music ... this third album for Real World signifies his star is ascending throughout the musical world.
September 1998
Press review from: Spirit Magazine
(UK)
... John Leckie’s judiciously unobtrusive work ... memorable melodies and supported by imaginative, diverse and sympathetic arrangements .... Wemba distils the charged emotion that pervades ‘Molokai’, making it a recording of refreshing and affecting directness.
September 1998
Press review from: The Wire
(UK)
... avoiding overdubs to ripplingly organic effect ... Molokai launch into the agile bounce of ‘Bakwetu’ ... palping the pace up for ‘M’Fono Yami’, injecting Latinisms on ‘Epelo’, the mainman’s voice hitting startling heights during ‘Awa Y’Okeyi’...
22 August 1998
Press review from: Birmingham What’s On
(UK)
... that effortlessly soulful voice, wonderfully showcased.
Press review from: Daily Telegraph
(UK)
.. the coolest man on the planet ... his chief priority is transmitting sheer bliss while moving your feet.
Press review from: Mojo (UK)
Bliss
Black Rock
