Immortal Franco: Africa's Unrivalled Guitar Legend

Album Review

Tribute albums can be tricky things, and when it's a tribute to such a towering figure of African music as the guitarist Franco, then those involved could be skating on thin ice. But few could be more qualified for such a task than the musicians here, since many of those involved worked with the great man — indeed, Mbenza was a vital figure in Franco's career, and who don't have lengthy careers playing Congolese rhumba. These are guys who don't just talk the talk, they walk the walk, both on lesser-known items from the canon as well as bigger hits like "Infidelité Mado." Perhaps the biggest problem with tribute albums is that they're often too polite and reverent, and this is no exception. The playing is, of course, impeccable, and a delight to hear, but there's not the edge to it that there was in the originals. It's more about being precise, and there's nothing wrong with that — it's still incredibly danceable, joyful music. But for anyone seeking true inspiration, go to the originals.