Destination

In his debut LP, Ghanaian vocalist and master djembe drummer Afla Sackey, alongside his band Afrik Bawantu, crafts a thrilling fusion of traditional Ghanaian sounds and fiery Afrobeat grooves, adding an irresistibly funky twist that sets them apart in the genre. Destination doesn’t just stick to the playbook—Sackey uses the album as a vehicle to channel messages of hope, unity, and self-reflection, a much-needed dose of positivity in today’s chaotic times.

At its core, Destination is a vibrant showcase of African rhythms, brisk horn sections, and earth-shaking bass lines. Afrik Bawantu’s unique spin on Afrobeat injects the album with a fresh energy, giving the genre a new life while staying rooted in its traditions. Afla Sackey’s clear vision shines through in every track, as the album traverses both personal growth and global awareness. As Sackey himself explains:

“With focus, determination, hard work, patience, ambition, and dignity—even though the journey is long and tough, with these qualities, we will arrive at our destination successfully.”

A standout example of Sackey’s life-affirming ethos is “Togetherness,” a track that encourages listeners to put aside divisions and embrace unity. Sackey’s voice, brimming with sincerity, urges us to see beyond race, religion, and gender, championing the idea that collective harmony can pave the way to peace for future generations. “Shake Your Booty,” on the other hand, flips the script, inviting listeners to leave their troubles behind and party with wild abandon. Its infectious rhythms and carefree lyrics reflect the catharsis of dance, offering an escape from life’s stresses: “Forget about your stress, your worries, and have a great time. Feel free, engage with everyone, and dance till you drop.”

First single “It’s Not Easy” leans into Afrobeat’s reflective side, addressing the struggles of everyday life while underscoring the importance of learning from adversity. This theme of global exploration and cultural understanding flows throughout Destination, as Sackey advocates for expanding our horizons to appreciate how others navigate the world. It’s an important message that resonates deeply in our current era of isolation and division.

The follow-up single, “Mofeemo Ke Eno,” delves into the human condition, specifically jealousy—but through Sackey’s positive lens. Rather than dwell on envy, Sackey reminds us that everyone’s journey is different, with their own destinies to fulfill. “Never get jealous about someone’s progress, as tomorrow will be your turn,” he sings, offering a refreshingly optimistic take on what is usually a negative emotion. This sense of personal accountability flows into “Mind Your Business,” a reminder to focus on our own ambitions, and “Be Careful,” which stresses the ripple effects of our actions, both personal and communal.

In “Sane Ye (There Is Trouble),” Sackey tackles global crises like war and societal breakdown, but instead of pointing fingers, he redirects our gaze inward. He implores us to examine our own roles in the dysfunction, highlighting the power of self-awareness in solving the larger issues we face.

Destination builds on the momentum Afrik Bawantu established with their critically acclaimed 2013 EP Noko Hewon and their 2014 debut LP Life On The Street. Sackey’s ability to create music that is as socially conscious as it is rhythmically compelling sets him apart, and his seamless blend of traditional Ghanaian influences with modern Afrobeat sensibilities makes for a dynamic listen.

Born in Ghana, Sackey’s artistic journey began with dance, performing with the renowned Bukom Ensemble before his elders noticed his musical talent and nurtured it. His move to London, supported by the Kakasitsi Master Drummers of Ghana, opened new doors for him, eventually leading him to earn a master’s degree at the prestigious Guildhall College in 2012. Today, Sackey is not only a recording artist but also a passionate educator, teaching Afrobeat and Afro Jazz at the Royal Academy of Music and facilitating workshops across the globe—from Japan to Argentina.

In addition to his solo work, Sackey has collaborated with legends like Sun Ra Arkestra, Ginger Baker, and Tony Allen. His ongoing projects with Ibibio Sound Machine, Sons of Kemet, and his Afro-electronic duo Raz & Afla further cement his role as a leading figure in the contemporary Afrobeat scene.

With Destination, Afla Sackey delivers a powerful message wrapped in infectious grooves and lush instrumentation. It’s an album that invites listeners to reflect, celebrate, and unite—all while keeping the dance floor alive with movement.