Adding Bobby Smith's "A New Day Dawning," which appears to be exclusive to this compilation, to the reasons why this is a must-own for lovers of Bahamian funk/soul. Listed my copy for sale less than 10 hrs until I found myself repeatedly lifting the needle back to the beginning of that tune and not "Funky Nassau" or even "Independant Bahamas."

Various Artists - "A Nation Is Born" on Bahamas NationhoodOver shadowed by Jamaica's reggae, Trinidad's calypso, and the Afro-Latin sounds of Cuba and Puerto Rico, the Bahama Islands rarely get their due as a source of some absolutely killer music. This compilation (subtitled "A Musical History of The Bahamas") was released in 1973 to coincide with the islands' independence from Britain, and features a solid representation of artists blending various Caribbean styles into their own special brew. There are some glaring omissions - Joseph Spence, often referred to as "the Thelonious Monk of folk guitar", should have easily made the cut, as well as soul shouter Jay Mitchell - but several of the biggest names associated with the Bahamas, such as Blind Blake, Exuma, and of course, The Beginning Of The End, are included, and the LP's liner notes were written by Bahamian-American superstar actor Sidney Poitier. There's a variety of styles represented, centered around the popular calypso and goombay sounds associated with the islands, and the best tracks here, in my opinion, are those merging these feels with the groove of American soul and funk. The Beginning of the End's heavy jam "Funky Nassau" is probably one of the most well known tracks to come from the islands, and for good reason - strains of James Brown collide with a goombay rhythm, and the results are wicked. But even better, are two lesser known tracks by obscure artists - Biosis Now's "Independent Bahamas" is straight up shot of island funk, while Bobby Smith's "A New Day Dawning" reminds me of the sweet soul of Archie Bell & The Drells. This great comp just barely scratches the surface of The Bahamas' rich musical heritage, but it's a terrific place to start.

The track "Independent Bahamas" makes the entire LP worth being sought after...Caribe funk!

Yes indeed, a real jewel, superb musicians and quality recording