YATOUPAS is a band formed in 1976 by: Bopol Mansiamina (Bass – Success Mode, 4 stars ..), Manuaku Waku (aka Grand Zaiko Wawa), and Ray Lema (Piano, Organ and Guitar). Between 1976 and 1978, they recorded several 45 T’s including the famous title “Je ne bois pas beaucoup” (1976) compiled on TROPICAL DISCOTHEQUE, SOFRITO in 2011. In 1978 this instrumental album, unique and unclassifiable, produced by Gérard Akueson (founder of Akue Records and Abeti’s producer).

This LP is composed of minimalist Afro jazz rhythms and deep funk grooves that are close at times to a tropical trance, all played by musicians who used to offer more classic Rumba rhythms. It is their only album before the departure in 1979 of Ray Lema for the United States and then France. Ray Lema’s departure follows a violent disagreement which opposed him to the dictator MOBUTU then in place in ZAIRE. Let’s not forget that the album was released in 1978 and that the departure of this main element probably led to the dissolution of the group.

A1. Ya Toupas
A2. Les Trois Z
A3. Mafokatini
A4. Soso Pembe
A5. Kaful Mayay
B1. Mbandaka
B2. Hello Mama
B3. Yakidile
B4. Marche Des Esclaves
B5. Zaïko Wawa