Orchestre Poly-Rythmo
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The Almighty of Cotonou: since 1968, the orchestra that invented Benin's groove and danced three generations.
The Almighty Poly-Rythmo Orchestra of Cotonou was founded in 1968 by the Melomean saxophonist Clement. His name says everything: a polyrhythm capable of absorbing the funk and soul of James Brown, the afrobeat of Fela Kuti — with whom he shares the scene in Lagos —, the salsa and the sacred vodoun rhythms of Benin.
In the 1970s, the orchestra recorded hundreds of titles for Cotonou labels, including the Albarika Store, and became the soundtrack of Benin's nights. Falling into oblivion outside the country, it was rediscovered by the Soundway labels and then Analog Africa, whose compilations reveal to the world the richness of its archives.
Reformed around original members, he recorded "Cotonou Club" (2011) with Angélique Kidjo — who learned music in his court — Fatumata Diawara and members of Franz Ferdinand, then "Madjafalao" (2016) at Because Music. The orchestra remained the musical pride of Benin on tour.