Listening back to last week’s GP Worldwide the brilliance of Tony Allen’s ‘Afro Beat Disco’ stood out. Recorded live January 29th, the track was a highlight of the Tony Allen and Hypnotic Brass Ensemble concert: the centrepiece of Mr Allen’s recent UK visit. The drum master has since left these shores for now, though with numerous moments of his visit captured, the vibrations rumble on.

Under the arches at  Cargo, Broad Casting was buzzing, with Hypnotic Brass Ensemble aiding a trio of legendary musicians: Dele Sosimi, Baaba Mal and the main man, Fela’s former rhythm-general, Tony Allen. Having not seen Tony Allen before I settled in a spot as close as could be, then spent an hour and a half wowed by his optimumly ergonomic position; super straight spine and relaxed limbs switching between hits with ease.

Arranged by Karen P’s, folded wing productions, the entire evening can be heard via RBMA. Plus a selecton of the night (with added backstage interviews) has been compiled by Ben Holman. Interesting insight into how Hypnotic get their mind-blowing harmonies.

Having tracked Hypnotic’s growth since first hearing about them in 2007, their rapidly rising reputation reflects their charisma and tireless energy. Bring on their album (forthcoming on Honest Jons). Hypnotic enthralled me as much as they have on the five previous occasions I seen them, undoubtedly they are one of the must see acts about. In addition to their bombardment of brass supremacy, the brothers impressively backed others, including homegrown talent, Natty (not for the first time) and Ty. Vocally surpassing others with a mic in hand, Baaba Mal was awesome. His rendition of ‘Ise Nla’ can be viewed on Baaba’s website.

Amongst all his other excursions, Tony Allen also found time to teach.