Notes
In the late '70s, the thrust of mainstream music had changed from the indigenous highlife to a more international funky disco sound. Keyboards and drum machines were the key components of the new sound. The implications on sales was real as names like Bunny Mack, Chris Okotie, Christy Essien, and Jide Obi replaced Osita Osadebe and the Oriental Brothers on the charts. It was in this effervescent climate that Duomo Sounds Ltd was established by Humphrey Aniakor, a business man with no prior investment in the industry. It was simply the in-thing for a young affluent businessman. The name suggested European sophistication, modernity and a little abstraction. D U O M O Sounds, the kids loved it. The first release was Bassey Black's Someone To Love which sold over a 100,000 copies, a big hit at the time. The success of the album attracted several artists the most influential of which was Mike Umoh. He aimed for the pop market with accessible, funky arrangements. However his affinity for funk and disco has made him a reference for collectors worldwide. His LP entitled, Honey, Honey was the label's second release and his most successful album. He also produced the label's 19th release, Bindiga's No More Starvation, an Afro-boogie funk masterpiece. The album in it's original format is very sought after by collectors and DJs and changes hands for huge sums. It's been described by many as cosmic funk at it's finest. Christy Ogbah's disco soul/highlife records on Duomo are also very highly sought after. This new Livingstone Studio release presents the best of Duomo Sounds Ltd. For the first time. Features Christy Ogbah, Johnny O, Mike Umoh, Bindiga, Bassey Black and The Natty Messiah, Godfrey Odili, and Eunice Mokus Arimoku. Liner notes by Nigerian Music expert Uchenna Ikkone; Includes previously unpublished photos.
