Osibisa 

Sunshine Day - The Boyhood Sessions 

(Red Steel Music) 

8/10

By Mark Taylor

Afro-Rock pioneers Osibisa are currently celebrating their 50th anniversary. 

Despite an ever-changing lineup, the band continue to spread their joyous ideology of criss cross rhythms that explode with happiness 

The Boyhood Sessions features an eclectic mix of live classic cuts and latter-day forgotten gems. A selection of choices that were originally considered for inclusion on Richard Linklater's Oscar-winning 2014 film Boyhood. All tracks mastered by Bella Corich at Loudpaw.

Osibisa's biggest hit single Sunshine Day made the grade. Two disco flavoured mixes bookend this release with a rather snazzy live version thrown in the middle for good measure. Purists will prefer to stick to the earthy original but the soulful vocals of Wendell Richardson singing that irresistible chorus against a modern electronic backbeat will ensure to get your bootie dancing. 

Ayiko Bia with its infectious chant is a timely reminder of what a great live unit Osibisa have always been, but the real highlights on this collection are the new mixes of tracks from their overlooked Monsore album from 1997. 

Featuring founder Teddy Osei, these new mixes of Feel Good and a dazzling Djankoso has a jazzy disco vibe full of spark and flair that will entice a new generation of fans to the music of Osibisa. 

A version of the African National anthem Nkosi Sikelel Afrika complete with a female choir gives you a zesty flavour of traditional Africa. 

A trumpeting collection.