AMG Review of Osibisa/Woyaya

Andy Kellman
All Music Guide

This 2004 release from BGO combines the first two Osibisa albums into one package. Both Osibisa and Woyaya -- originally released in 1971 -- are remastered with fine, vibrant sound, and the original sleeve notes from the latter are included, as well as a new essay. Though Osibisa had a lengthy career and remained creative for several years, the two albums here are the group's best -- so this should actually be considered the best introduction, at least until an adequate discography-spanning collection is put together. Since it's a two-fer release, Roger Dean's typically bonkers artwork from both albums is scaled down drastically and posed side by side on the front.