Afrobutt: Wundabutt

With an arsenal of funk guitars, disco beats, and synthesizers, Afrobutt, a.k.a. Stevie Kotey, has released his full-length debut, Wunderbutt. And there is not a more fitting title both for himself and his album. This is some serious ass-shaking music here, even if some of it drags and could use a well-intended kick in that ass Kotey is trying make shake. Also, his drums on some songs, like album-opener “Urgent Workout Required”, fall flat with no bottom end (no pun intended). Those flaws could lose some listeners, though they are rewarded if they stick around. Well, at least it’s that way with certain songs. “Lucifer Went to Church”, for example, is full of variety thanks to an ever-changing style. But, as intended, “Lucifer Went to Church” remains a booty-shaker throughout. Other cuts are more straight-forward dance-floor fire, such as the Afrobeat-inspired “Banger Disco” and “Feast Your Eyes”, which easily features the album’s best drumbeat. While Kotey isn’t exactly breaking any new ground here musically, you can’t deny the fun element that rings true across Wonderbutt.