: Secret Agent - Tony Allen

Tony Allen is arguably Africa's greatest kit drummer. As co-creator with Fela Kuti of the hugely popular and influential Afrobeat style, Allen is one of the continent's most important artists. He has inspired generations of musicians worldwide and is a legendary figure amongst fans of funk, jazz, hip hop and African music. 'Secret Agent' is his debut album for World Circuit. This is a great Afrobeat album, driven by Allen's powerful rhythms along with a choice selection of Nigerian singers. The combination of big, bruised horn refrains and soul-flavoured choruses, powered by his surges of inimitably propulsive rhythm, makes for unfailingly compelling listening.