Luaka Bop will release William Onyeabor – What?!, for which the label partnered with Moog to commission remixes and covers of the remarkably elusive African electronic artist William Onyeabor, on Record Store Day, April 19.
The collection features reworkings of World Psychedelic Classics 5: Who Is William Onyeabor?, one of the most critically acclaimed albums of 2013. In the absence of participation from Onyeabor, who long ago turned his back on music, Luaka Bop continues to engage other artists to create work, inspired by Onyeabor, in various mediums.
William Onyeabor – What?! opens with Hot Chip’s cover of the Onyeabor landmark “Atomic Bomb” listen below:
Also upcoming are the first-ever live performances of Onyeabor’s music. Entitled ATOMIC BOMB! The Music of William Onyeabor, the series of concerts will feature all-star lineups including artists such as Alexis Taylor (Hot Chip), Kele Okereke (Bloc Party), Damon Albarn, Pat Mahoney (LCD Soundsystem), Sinkane, Money Mark, and the first live appearances in 30 years by the legendary Lijadou Sisters.
Live:
feat: Alexis Taylor (Hot Chip), Kele Okereke (Bloc Party), Pat Mahoney (LCD Soundsystem), Sinkane, Money Mark, Lijadu Sisters and Ghost Poet
April 1st THE BARBICAN (London)
April 2nd COLSTON HALL (Bristol)