This rerelease of some of their best might sound better with the plush effects available in modern studios, but the sound is still incredibly full and rich, and it stands the test of time. Super Biton captures the cosmopolitan charm of the West African big bands perfectly, and reflects that moment when Western musical models were giving way to local styles.
Lead vocals duel with saxophone lines and then a brilliantly subtle guitar solo.
Later the horns punch to the fore in a half minute flurry, announcing the end of the dance. The format of the songs may be formulaic, but it is executed to perfection. The second half of this nine-minute song is more consistent with the rest, though, with a fine sax solo showing the group's jazz influences. It would be nice to know the recording dates and info for the songs, and who some of the main players might be, but the thin liner notes offer nothing. The artists should get credit where it is due, especially on a great album from a classic band.