VARIOUS ARTISTS

In the Name of Love: Africa Celebrates U2

2008-03-04

Bono's advocacy for the continent of Africa is well-known, so it isn't a surprise to see some of Africa's finest musicians pay tribute to his band, U2, in this innovative set of covers. Of course, album proceeds are going to charity. But the listener also receives much in the transaction: Benin's Angelique Kidjo fine rendition of "Mysterious Ways" (#1); Mali's Vieux Farka Toure marvelous take on "Bullet the Blue Sky" (#2); a hymn-like version of "Pride (In the Name of Love)" by the Soweto Gospel Choir of South Africa (#9); and the Sierra Leone Refugee All-Stars re-inventing "Seconds" (#10). And there's more where that came from. Each cut takes on some of the legacy of a different African country's musical culture, proving that the road from Dublin to Dakar isn't all that far to traverse. Here's a detailed road map. 03/08 MJVD W-Africa

Quick Links:

• More information on the recording
• Shout! Factory store site
• Global Rhythm story on the making of the record