Ofege - 1976 - The Last Of The Origins

Ofege

1976

The Last Of The Origins

01. Mandy

02. Amayo

03. Evil Child

04. Tomorrow

05. Got A Lot To Give

06. Sorrow

07. In Concert

08. Everybody Feels The Same

09. Adieau

10. Devils Work

Melvin Ukachi (guitar, vocals)

Paul Alade (bass)

Mike Meme(drums),

Dapo Olumide (keyboards)

Felix Inneh (rhythm guitar)

Ofege, a Nigerian band formed by teenage students from St. Gregory’s College in Lagos, made waves in the early 1970s with their innovative blend of psychedelic rock, funk, and Afrobeat. Their second studio album, The Last of the Origins, released in 1976, follows their massively successful debut, Try and Love (1973). While the user refers to it as Ofege’s third album, standard discography lists it as their second, succeeded by Higher Plane Breeze (1977) and How Do You Feel (1978). For this review, we’ll treat The Last of the Origins as their second album, aligning with its widely accepted place in their catalog.

The Last of the Origins builds on the foundation laid by Try and Love, refining Ofege’s signature sound. The album retains the fuzzy guitar solos, intricate African rhythms, and youthful energy that defined their debut, but introduces a more polished and cohesive approach. The psychedelic rock elements are dialed back slightly, making room for a stronger emphasis on funk and Afrobeat influences—a shift that reflects the growing prominence of Afrobeat in Nigeria during the mid-1970s, spearheaded by artists like Fela Kuti. Tracks alternate between high-energy, groove-driven numbers and slower, melodic pieces, showcasing the band’s versatility and growth as musicians. The interplay between the guitar and rhythm section feels tighter, a testament to their development despite still being in their late teens.

Lyrically, the album moves beyond the carefree exuberance of their earlier work. While themes of love and youthful experiences remain, there’s a noticeable depth in The Last of the Origins. The title suggests a transition—perhaps the end of their initial phase as a band and the beginning of a more introspective chapter. Songs explore personal reflection and subtle social commentary, hinting at a growing awareness of the world around them. This evolution aligns with the band members’ maturation, offering a glimpse into their expanding perspectives.

The production, likely helmed by Odion Iruoje—who shaped the raw yet polished sound of Try and Love—strikes a balance between capturing Ofege’s live intensity and delivering a cleaner, more focused record. Each instrument shines, from the crisp guitar lines to the pulsating bass and drums, creating a sound that’s both dynamic and accessible. The production quality enhances the album’s appeal, preserving the band’s infectious energy while showcasing their instrumental prowess.

Upon release, The Last of the Origins didn’t replicate the commercial success of Try and Love, which sold hundreds of thousands of copies in Nigeria. However, it was well-received locally and solidified Ofege’s reputation as pioneers of Nigerian psych-rock. In recent years, the album has found a new audience through international reissues by labels like Tidal Waves Music and Strut Records. This resurgence has cemented its status as a vital piece of Nigerian music history, introducing Ofege’s innovative sound to global listeners and highlighting their influence on the fusion of Western and African musical traditions.

The Last of the Origins is a worthy successor to Ofege’s debut, demonstrating their evolution as musicians and their continued innovation within the Nigerian music scene. While it may not have achieved the same fame as Try and Love, it remains a compelling listen—blending psychedelic rock, funk, and Afrobeat with a sophistication that belies the band’s young age. For fans of African music, psych-rock, or simply great music, this album offers a vibrant snapshot of 1970s Nigeria and the extraordinary talent of a group of teenagers who dared to break boundaries. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, The Last of the Origins is an essential addition to any music collection, capturing Ofege at a moment of creative brilliance.