Album Review: Gyedu-Blay Ambolley – Simigwa (Strut Records Reissue)

Strut Records continues its celebration of Ghana’s legendary Essiebons label with the official reissue of Simigwa, the groundbreaking 1975 album by Gyedu-Blay Ambolley. Recognized as a cornerstone of Ghanaian highlife and Afro-funk, Simigwa is a bold, genre-blending record that captures Ambolley’s unique fusion of traditional Ghanaian rhythms, American funk, and soul. This reissue not only brings the album’s infectious grooves to a new audience but also includes an exclusive interview with Ambolley himself, shedding fresh light on the album’s creation and impact.

At the heart of Simigwa is Ambolley’s signature style—a half-sung, half-spoken vocal delivery that channels the spirit of James Brown while remaining distinctly Ghanaian. The album bursts open with Kwaakwaa, an uplifting Afro-funk jam that immediately showcases his charismatic frontman energy. Call-and-response vocals drive the track forward, while the brass section announces itself with fiery solos that dance over a tight rhythm section. Akko Ba keeps the momentum going, layering funky wah-wah guitar, a deep, rolling bassline, and intricate horn arrangements. The extended instrumental intro lets the trumpet and saxophone trade licks before Ambolley steps in, effortlessly commanding the groove.

Lyrically and musically, Simigwa shifts between infectious dance rhythms and social commentary. This Hustling World leans heavily into straight-up funk, its organ-driven groove and punchy brass lines underpinning Ambolley’s reflections on life’s struggles. It’s a head-nodding anthem, drenched in the influence of James Brown but unmistakably rooted in Ghanaian tradition. Toffie, on the other hand, slows things down with a blues-infused swagger, where Ambolley’s raw vocal delivery is complemented by tight, stabbing brass and hypnotic guitar flourishes.

While much of the album leans into funk, Adwoa stands out as the most traditional highlife track, bubbling with intricate percussion and a joyous interplay between bass and organ. The track radiates warmth and energy, embodying the uplifting essence of Ghanaian music. The album closes with Fa No Dem Ara, a mid-tempo funk masterpiece where the organ takes center stage before the full band locks into one of the record’s most infectious grooves—one of the album’s undeniable highlights.

This reissue of Simigwa is a vital reminder of Gyedu-Blay Ambolley’s visionary fusion of highlife and funk. His ability to blend African rhythms with the raw energy of American soul makes this album a timeless classic. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ghanaian music or discovering Ambolley for the first time, Simigwa is an essential listen—now lovingly restored by Strut Records for a new generation of listeners.