Various - Soul Sok Séga: Sounds from Mauritius 1973-1979

  by Maarten Schiethart

published: 10 / 4 / 2016

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Review

An immaculate selection from two generations ago, 'Soul Sok Séga' showcases the isle of Maurice, or, in quasi Latin Dutch, Mauritius (from Maurits). Tedious synth pop disco funk, stomping soul and witty local patois all feature on 'Soul Sok Séga'. In the early 1970s musicians picked up the soul and funk fever. Mostly sung in French patois and in true honour of the era, this twenty track compilation marks a smashing party. Around then, Mauritius must have been a fabulous island to live on for lovers of funk and soul music. With a diversity close to that found on Cuba, Jamaica and the Carribean. 'Soul Sok Séga' is a compilation which deserves the subtitle 'The Best Of The East Indies'. There's a monster track, 'Bhaï Aboo', from Claudio which sounds like funky horror film music. Catherine Velienne, with her 'Mo Mari Fini Allé' - my man has gone at last - is one of few women that appears and her track is one of only a small number of sad but beautiful soul songs. 'O Happy Joy' without the religious undertones. Most of the tracks are rather naughty and rebellious and have plenty of humour. With each listen, one begins to understand more lines from the patois of Mauritius. The Strut label has released stunning compilations yet this one is truly unconditionally recommended. The perfect birthday present. Buy the 2 LP set and get the CD for free. So, you can 'share'.

Track Listing:-

1 Soul Sock Séga
2 Mademoiselle
3 Eliza
4 Manuel Bitor
5 La Vie En Badinage
6 Claudio
7 Les Stardust
8 L'Amour Artificiel
9 Bhai Aboo
10 Mo Parrain
11 Pop Soul Séga
12 Mone Lasser Dire Toi
13 Elida
14 Mo Mari Fini Allé
15 Séga Souval
16 Nouveau Venu Dans L'Endroit
17 Z'Enfant Misère
18 Afro Mauricien
19 Coco Mamzelle
20 Madame Zean

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