Thanks for all the informative posts, it's what I was hoping for. Never heard of uKanDanZ, that is some heavy synchopated-riff based stuff there, excellent. Mahmoud Ahmed & Ibex Band was also unknown to me and on first listen, really tasty stuff so I think I will explore that one. Fela Kuti is a legend, the pioneer of Afrobeat and if that weren't enough, he became a key political figure and human rights activist in Nigeria. Anyone who doesn't know him should take a look (and a listen). Looks like the Witch might be the next thing to check out, might even go for that box set if I dig it. So thanks again for all the info!

I do like Demon Fuzz and ZZebra and I love Tinariwen, started buying their CDs several years ago when I became aware of them. This thread has broadened beyond what I intended but that's fine with me - keep 'em coming!