After Fela Kuti’s unexpected death in 1997, young Seun Kuti stepped in to perform with his father’s band Egypt 80.

Fela Kuti’s acclaimed band has been producing and performing innovative afrobeat hits since the 1970s, and Seun clearly relished his position as their current front-man.

Sashaying around the stage, and eventually stripping down with the assistance of one of his sassy backing singers, he looked like a man who loves his job.

He played the role well, clearly influenced by his father’s style but with relishes of his own.

His voice was clear, vibrant and strong throughout, and the audience couldn’t stop moving to his beat.

Akala’s presence on the stage was less welcome and as he performed his solo tracks, there was a mass migration to the bar.

It was a shame because although the musical styles were different, there was a unity in the themes behind them.

Akala did well not to be dwarfed by the scale and exuberance of Egypt 80 and held his own on joint numbers.

Sadly though, most people in attendance were here for sunny music to dance to, not for political messages, and Akala’s considered, clever hip-hop was under-appreciated.

It was a worthy experiment, but not one which won over many of the ardent Afrobeat fans.

Three stars