Another installment of amazing music from the first wave of modern black settlement in England. The focus remains on the '50s, with classic calypsos running alongside the African jazz of Ambrose Campbell -- the father of modern Nigerian music -- and some blistering high-life. Among the contributions from the '60s there is some South African kwela (featuring Chris McGregor) and a jazz-dance percussion workout from the Trinidadians who put the Notting Hill Carnival on London streets. The LPs are housed in a gatefold sleeve with a beautiful folded insert. There is a trenchant introduction by Paul Gilroy, full discographical notes, and numerous wonderful photographs.

Young Tiger - Calypso Be
Ambrose Campbell - Yolanda
Mona Baptiste - Calypso Blues
West African Rhythm Brothers - Adura
Lord Kitchener - My Wife's Nightie
West African Rhythm Brothers - Ominira
West African Rhythm Brothers - Eroya
Lord Beginner - General Election
The Lion - Kalenda March
Tunji Oyelana - Omonike
Shake Keane & His Highlifers - Baionga
King Timothy - Gerrard Street
West African Swing Stars - E.T. Mensah's Rolling Ball
Ambrose Campbell - Ashiko Rhythm
West African Swing Stars - Omo Africa
Gwigwi Mrwebi - Nyusamkhaya
Russ Henderson - West Indian Drums
Lord Beginner - Nobody Wants to Grow Old
Rans Boi's Ghana Highlife Band - Gbonimawo
West African Rhythm Brothers - Sing the Blues