Step into a world of musical enchantment with the mesmerizing sounds of “Okukomawe” by Abadongo Abaganda Kampala. Hailing from the vibrant musical landscape of Uganda in 1948, this composition is a testament to the captivating power of rhythm and vocals.
The song opens a doorway to a rich tapestry of sound, characterized by its hypnotic quality and the interplay of vocals over an intense rhythmic backdrop. The intricate layers of the composition create a fascinating sonic journey that captures the essence of a bygone era.
“Okukomawe” takes its name from epic poetry attributed to J. Kasasa, possibly present during its recording. The title itself, which translates to “The Return of the King Mutesa,” suggests connections to the historical figure Kabaka Muteesa I of Buganda or his descendants. The use of the endingidi, a tube fiddle, accompanied by the odi, a hand-held harp akin to the Nyatiti or other East African bowl harps, infuses the music with traditional authenticity. These instruments, crafted with materials like antelope horn and elephant ear, evoke a sense of history and heritage.
This captivating track is part of the upcoming LP titled “Secret Museum of Mankind – Atlas of Instruments, Fiddles, Vol. 1,” scheduled for release on September 15 by Jalopy Records. Curated by the renowned global music record collector Pat Conte, this reissue LP series transports listeners across the globe and through time, offering a compilation of fiddle music from the 1920s to the 1950s. As the tenth volume in the cherished Secret Museum of Mankind series, this compilation continues to explore the rich musical legacy of the first half of the twentieth century.
Accompanying “Okukomawe” on the double-sided single is “Volana Fenomanana” by the Orchestre de M. Michel Ratsimba from Madagascar, circa 1930. Together, these tracks capture the essence of their respective cultures and eras, inviting listeners to experience the diverse musical tapestry of our world’s history.