Khartoum Kapers

One of the great delights of recent years has been the emergence of a whole bunch of labels dedicating themselves to tracking down African music from the pre-Internet age - the likes of Strut, Soundways, Analog Africa, Obstinato, Now-Again and my old buddy Awesome Tapes From Africa, al of whom have had releases featured here.

To that number you can add Habibi Funk, a Berlin-based label which specializes in vintage funky sounds from the Middle East and North Africa. If you are not familiar with them, their compilation "Habibi Funk 007" is a great place to start.   

One of the shiniest jewels in their crown is "Habibi Funk 013: The King of Sudanese Jazz", the King in question being a gent called Sharhabil Ahmed. Fortunately for us all, Sudanese Jazz bears no resemblance to 'normal' jazz. It is more like slightly wonky rock 'n roll.

"Argos Farfish" - Sharhabil Ahmed

"Kamar Dawa" - Sharhabil Ahmed

There is something about the opening to "Argos Farfish" - particularly the squawking sax - that reminds me of this old favourite from Blurt. And they both have fish in the title!

"A Fish Needs A Bike" - Blurt

Ten bonus points if you can tell me the link between that and this.