In 2001, the London label Strut issued Nigeria 70 as a triple-disc set: two audio CDs and a DVD with documentary. The label laid low for a while in mid-decade — but not before a handful of other labels began following its lead by excavating a rich, growing horde of gems from Lagos and beyond — the Nigeria Special series, in particular, has picked up on what Nigeria 70 began.

So it's only fair that in 2009, Nigeria 70 be issued again. A reissue of a reissue is a rare thing, but this comp has earned it. Now packaged sans the DVD, it's a double-disc that feels lean and tight even as it sprawls over two hours in length. But unless you're a collector, you shouldn't worry: the music really is the thing here, and some of it stands with some of the funkiest jams of the '70s, regardless of where they came from.

Fela Kuti & the Africa 70 you probably already know about; his "Jeun Ko Ku (Chop 'n 'Quench)" is as down-to-the-ground as Fela got, thanks to a guitar so off-center it's practically sideways and one of the master's greatest horn charts. Africa 70 drummer Tony Allen… read more »