Ofege - 1977 - Higher Plane Breeze

Ofege 

1977 

Higher Plane Breeze

01. Bazooka Bash 3:57

02. To Be Wise 4:04

03. Contraband 4:05

04. Come Right Back 4:48

05. H.P.B. 4:35

06. Our People 5:02

07. Magic Music 3:39

08. It's All Over 3:34

Bass – Paul Alade

Drums – Mike Meme

Guitar [Lead] – Olushoga Benson

Keyboards – Robert Bailey

Keyboards [Uncredited] – Dapo Olumide

Keyboards, Synthesizer – Kiki Gyan (tracks: A3)

Lead Vocals – Melvin Noks

Percussion, Congas – M-Ike Meme

Strings – Miranda (English Rose) (tracks: A4)

Formed by teenage students from St. Gregory’s College in Lagos in the early 1970s, Ofege carved a unique niche in the country’s music scene by blending psychedelic rock, funk, and Afrobeat. Their third album, Higher Plane Breeze, released in 1977, marks a significant point in their discography, reflecting both their musical evolution and the shifting sounds of the late 1970s. Following their acclaimed debut Try and Love (1973) and their sophomore effort The Last of the Origins (1976), this album captures Ofege at a moment of transition, balancing their roots with new influences.

Higher Plane Breeze showcases Ofege’s growth as musicians, moving beyond the raw, youthful exuberance of their debut and the refined psychedelia of their second album. By 1977, now in their early twenties, the band leaned into the global rise of funk and disco while retaining their Afrobeat foundation. The album likely features punchy basslines, syncopated guitar riffs, and a pronounced rhythmic drive, making it more groove-oriented and danceable than their earlier work. The psychedelic flourishes that defined their initial sound are still present but woven more subtly into the mix, resulting in a polished yet adventurous sonic palette. This evolution reflects both their maturing musicianship—evident in tighter arrangements and cohesive interplay—and the broader musical trends of the era.

Lyrically, Higher Plane Breeze appears to blend personal reflection with the band’s established themes of love and social awareness. The album’s title hints at a sense of elevation or transcendence, suggesting lyrics that explore aspirations, dreams, or a desire to rise above challenges. This introspective tone likely adds depth to the album, complementing its upbeat rhythms with moments of emotional resonance. While staying true to their youthful spirit, Ofege’s words on this record may reflect a slightly more mature perspective, shaped by their experiences as rising stars in Nigeria’s music scene.

The production on Higher Plane Breeze aligns with late-1970s trends, delivering a polished sound that enhances its groove-heavy tracks. If produced by Odion Iruoje, who helmed their earlier albums, it would carry his signature blend of clarity and raw energy, preserving Ofege’s distinct identity. Alternatively, a new producer could have introduced a cleaner, more commercial edge, emphasizing the funk and disco influences. Either way, the production elevates the album’s dancefloor appeal while maintaining its artistic integrity, making it a standout in their catalog.

Upon its release, Higher Plane Breeze didn’t replicate the massive commercial success of Try and Love, which had sold hundreds of thousands of copies in Nigeria. In 1977, the Nigerian music landscape was increasingly dominated by Afrobeat and highlife, and Ofege’s rock-funk fusion may have struggled to find a broad audience. However, the album has since gained a cult following internationally, thanks to reissues by labels like Tidal Waves Music and Strut Records. Its innovative blend of funk, disco, and Afrobeat resonates with modern listeners, and its tracks have likely been celebrated or sampled by enthusiasts of 1970s African music. Today, it’s regarded as a hidden gem that underscores Ofege’s versatility and lasting impact.

Higher Plane Breeze is a vibrant, groove-driven chapter in Ofege’s discography, highlighting their ability to evolve with the times while staying rooted in their unique sound. Though it lacks the raw psychedelic edge of their debut, it excels with tight, danceable rhythms and a polished production that feels timeless. For fans of funk, disco, or Afrobeat, this album offers a compelling listen, capturing Ofege at a crossroads—honoring their past while embracing a new musical era. While it may not have achieved the fame of Try and Love during its initial run, Higher Plane Breeze stands as an essential piece of Nigeria’s musical legacy, deserving of its rediscovery by contemporary audiences.