LAGOS’ LIFE SERIES, THE OCTOBER EDITION

‘We enjoyed what we see here…tell the world that we do.’ Those were the words of Mssrs Ghalem, the head of French Cultural Centre, Lagos office and Ibrahim, the centre’s Technical Officer during the October edition of Lagos’ Life Series. These were not ordinary accolades. For the members of Edaoto and Afrogenius Band the fact that the arrow-head of French culture and his lieutenant would spend an approximately two hours of their busy time to listen and continually applaud the band performance was a metaphor of endorsement on its own; not to mention their good words.

This every second Saturday, monthly Afrobeat show as usual commenced at 7pm, at its present in situ- Savannah Bar and Restaurant, 42, Iwaya Road. By the time the show took off, dignitaries such as the two mentioned above were already seated; same for the teaming fans of the band that continues to increase in such an admirable digit. It was as usual expected that the band continues to be in the good book of their fans. Evidently, the fans are beginning to master the songs of this band, as well as their musical dexterities. Edaoto, the band leader, only have to say Gbagba, and one is sure that the audience will not wait for the refrain reply of his member. They often first the band boys in the reply of this onomatopoeia that is not only a covert word for a call to performance action but somewhat becoming the band’s signature turn. This is a pointer to one thing: that the fans are fully into the groove of this band.

The October edition of Edaoto and Afrogenius Band showcased other interesting musicians and instrumentalists such as …. who left the audience jaw-dropping when he exhibited another talent of his where he sang lengthily… Perhaps, one remarkable essence of this skill is that there was no mistaking the lyrics of the popular tune he reproduced that evening. Other artistes include the ever reliable clan from Crown Troupe of Africa.

More and more, Lagos’ Life Series continue to reaffirm the fact that it is not any kind of programme, the reason why it should not be compared with any other programmed; least, not with any from Savannah Bar, simply because this Afrobeat evening is on the role call of programmes that happen at this rendezvous. Lagos’ Life Series is in a world of its own. It is the only programme at the bar that can boost of the presence of the crème de la crème of the Nigeria Literary and Art enclave, as well as, the Who-is-Who in Nigeria, in its audience. Let us not over-flog the obvious Lagos’ Life Series does conscious music that is outside the orientation of other programmes/ performers at this event place.

“Evidently, the fans are beginning to master the songs of this band, as well as their musical dexterities. Edaoto, the band leader, only have to say Gbagba, and one is sure that the audience will not wait for the refrain reply of his member. They often first the band boys in the reply of this onomatopoeia that is not only a covert word for a call to performance action but somewhat becoming the band’s signature turn.”

Report by: ARI-AJIA lanre