exclusive licensing agreement with Albarika Store, the legendary record
label that defined the sound of Benin and influenced the entire region
of West Africa and beyond.
Recorded and issued in 1974, Le Sato is one of the earliest releases on the Albarika label and it is also one of the deepest.
Sato is the term for the traditional rhythms that soundtrack Vodun
(Voodoo) rituals and ceremonies in Benin. Performance of Sato is
reserved for these sacred rites, which evoke the spirits of the dead and
can last for several days and attract hundreds of people. Sato rhythms
cannot be played outside of Vodun.
A large ceremonial Sato drum is used, which measured over 1.5m in
height. This drum is played using wooden stick beaters, the drummer
dancing while playing. The Sato drummers are supported by percussionists
and other drummers playing smaller drums. Together, they create unique,
layered, trance-inducing poly-rhythms.
