At the start of her European tour, long time football fan Angelique Kidjo, calls into FIFA's Headquarters to chat about her passion for football, the benefits to Africa for hosting the World Cup competition, parallels between music & football and her distress over the attack on the Togolese football team at Cabinda, Angola. She states, "My dearest wish is that we will one day see peace reign in Africa, brought about by sport and music, and by dialogue resulting from these universal passions". Read the whole interview on the FIFA website where you can also rad their interview with Youssou N'Dour.

News in from Wyldpytch : New release, HIGHLIFE KINGS VOL.1, introducing the first of four volumes including great music from the likes of Rex Lawson, Sir Victor Uwaifo, Dr Victor Olaiya, and many more. Jazzy horns and strong guitar strokes and bold native instrumentation. Read on for free download..

Orchestre Poly-Rythmo's debut London show took place at the end of last month - 40 years after the band was formed! It was a huge success and the band will return to the UK in February/ March 2010 for the African Soul Rebels tour. Read the full press release of their new album out on 26th October here