Franco & le Tout Puissant OK Jazz
Francophonic Vol. 2: 1980-1989
Rating: 4.5/5.0
Label: Stern's Africa
While last year's Francophonic Vol. 1 charted almost three decades of music from this legendary Congolese bandleader, the second of the two-volume series takes a close look at the last nine years of Franco's life. Though a major celebrity in Zaire, Franco lived out his last decade in Paris, after butting heads with dictator Mobutu Sese Seko. Yet, while Franco was wildly prolific in his last decade of life, the 13 tracks spread over the two discs in this collection present an impeccable snapshot of a master working in his prime.
Franco worked as the glue in le Tout Puissant OK Jazz, a collection of musicians and singers fronted by the legendary bandleader. While a performer such as James Brown not only led the band, but commanded the audience's full attention, Franco could step back and allow his musicians to take center stage. Of course, his signature electric guitar is ever-present and his larger-than-life existence was necessary for the group to function.
Perhaps the biggest service Stern's Africa has done in releasing Francophonic Vol. 2 is allowing songs such as "Takoma ba camarade pamba" and "Mario," Franco's greatest success, to reach American ears. To even call these mini-celebrations songs does little justice to these 10-minute plus epics that burst to the seams with celebratory horns, danceable rhythms and an ecstatic joie de vivre that recalls not only the best of American funk but also artists who live to perform, such as the rapturous, young Bruce Springsteen or the grateful elders of the Buena Vista Social Club. It is impossible for us to recognize the cultural impact of Franco, not only on Zaire, but most of sub-Saharan Africa. While countries such as Mali serve as the continent's musical hotspot today, Franco's music is still played in clubs and at celebrations. His songs have the cultural heft of an Elvis Presley multiplied by a John Lennon.
Most of the music on the first volume of Francophonic came from 45s, but the tracks on volume two are culled from LPs. What an amazing experience it must have been to listen to the originals, one song covering almost an entire side of vinyl. Thankfully, Stern's Africa also provides a lovingly crafted booklet that translates many of the songs, allowing us access to Franco's world of gigolos, widows and slackers.
Though the cause of Franco's early demise at 51 years old has never been made official, it was most likely AIDS-related. His legacy is undeniable, leaving behind more than 1,250 records and millions of fans. When he died in Belgium in 1989, his body was transferred to Kinshasa, where it was lain in state during four days of national mourning. If you are someone who thrills to Ali Farka Toure or loves Afro-Cuban jazz, the music of Franco and his band will be an indelible addition to your collection.
by David Harris
