New York City, USA – The issues that plague The Ivory Coast and other African
nations are prominent on
Alpha
Blondy‘s latest CD, Elohim, a wide-ranging set of classic Marley-esque
reggae that showcases Alpha to be as vital as ever. Some artists raise political
and social issues in their songs but Alpha Blondy the most popular international
reggae star since Bob Marley, confronts them in real life as well as his music. With his beloved homeland, The Ivory Coast shattered by civil war and facing
potential disintegration, Alpha has attempted to act as an honest broker between
various factions in the country. It’s dangerous work but Alpha is driven to see
peace and justice prevail. Despite the fact that he has been jailed before, he
still chooses to uses his music as a vehicle for positive change. “Machine
guns sing louder than me,” he has noted “but if we don’t find a quick
solution now…we’ll be talking about a war that will last maybe twenty years or
more.”
Elohim, Alpha Blondy’s eighth recording on Shanachie, features his
sinuous reedy vocals on a compelling set of originals that deal with the
struggles and sobering realities of life and themes of love. Such songs as
“Journalists En Danger,” “Take No Prisoner” (which deals with the slaughter in
Sudan, “Dictature (Dictator)” and “Les Voleurs De La Republique (Thieves Of The
Republic)” pull no punches. In typical Alpha Blondy fashion, the mesmerizing
performer sings in multiple languages including French, English and Jula [also
spelled Dyula, Dyoula, Diula, Dioula, Djula]. His passionate and dynamic vocals
manage to convey great meaning and spirit in any language he chooses to sing.
Alpha’s playful side is displayed on compositions like the lighthearted
“Waikiki Rock,” which is no doubt a play on his massive hit, “Cocody Rock.” The
catchy song references Hawaii, a place where Alpha has always had a fervent
following (one of his early albums outsold Michael Jackson there in its early
weeks of release). As always Alpha Blondy’s backed by a super-tight cast of
top-flight musicians drawn from Africa Europe and The Caribbean.
[Buy
Elohim now].
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
