Pull The Rope is the fifth album by the collective Ibibio Sound Machine. On previous albums, the group combined various styles such as Afrobeat, funk and electro with influences from Nigerian music. On Pull The Rope, they cheerfully continue this clash of styles, firing at the listener with a great deal of energy. The album was recorded in two weeks with producer Ross Orton (of
Arctic Monkeys and
… M.I.A., among others). With their music, the band aims to unite people, so the danceable songs exude hope, positivity and strength. In addition, a political message is incorporated into the lyrics and singer Eno Williams advocates female empowerment. Besides a danceable cocktail of swirling genres, this album also contains the necessary urgency that reflects on today's uncertain world. (JvQ)more
