2024 Stock. Reissue on 180 grams vinyl. For “Afrika”, originally released in 1984, South African expatriate bassist Johnny Dyani enlarged his group to a septet from the quartet formation he had used on prior Steeplechase recordings and, in the process, shifted gears slightly from the deeper, beautifully bitter songs that had been his forte (such as “House Arrest” on Mbizo) to a somewhat lighter fare, replete with catchy, skipping melodies and funky electric bass. Dyani unfortunately passed away before witnessing the end of the oppressive regime he strongly opposed, yet his musical legacy remains a treasure for us to cherish. SteepleChase is reissuing his 1984 album Afrika, where he showcases his skills on bass and piano leading a dynamic group that includes the impressive addition of Rudy Smith's steel drums. Arguably Dyani's most exceptional masterpiece.