Rim Kwaku Obeng

The name Rim Kwaku Obeng might not ring a bell for even the most devoted funk and afrobeat aficionado. The Ghanaian percussionist's music, which includes a string of groove-inducing tunes recorded in the late 70s and early 80s, has remained relatively unheralded despite its blatant appeal in today's retro-tinged musical climate. Luckily for those with a penchant for vintage obscurities of the afrobeat variety, the musician's 'lost' records are being reissued by UK-based label BBE. The multi-instrumentalist began his career as part of Ghana's Uhuru Dance Band. While recording with the band in Los Angeles, he caught the attention of production maestro [a17546] who invited the artist to play in his band. A series of setbacks induced by threats from a fellow bandmate of a lawsuit if Rim were to work with Quincy led to a sorely missed opportunity and soon his bandmates abandoned him in LA, leaving him stranded and without resources for 6 months. The musician's break finally came when he was given the opportunity to record his debut album in San Francisco. Rim Arrives is a dance-worthy blend of funk, disco and afrobeat hoisted by catchy call-and-response lyrics, reminiscent of [a19812]'s trademarked sound. Items from Rim Kwaku Obeng's brief yet noteworthy discography — carried by its unique intermix of soul, funk and afro-disco — are being re-released by BBE Records. Rim Arrives/International Funk is available now for purchase on vinyl/CD/MP3/WAV download and his second album Too Tough/ I'm Not Going To Let You Go will also be out soon. Get a taste of Rim's energizing sound in the sampler below. The Afro-Disco Fusion Of 1970s Ghanaian Percussionist Rim Kwaku Obeng Unsung Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist Rim Kwaku Obeng's afro-disco album is being reissued via UK's BBE record label.