RAM – August 1791 (Willibelle, 2018)
RAM, one of the leading Haitian roots music bands celebrates the slave revolt in Haiti on August 1791. The title of the album indicates the year that Haitians started their rebellion against brutal French colonial oppression.
The group is led by vocalist Richard Auguste Morse (RAM) and features family members as well as some of the best players in the Haitian capital. The overall sound is a mix of irresistible Afro-Haitian voodoo percussion, call and response vocals, captivating choruses, rock guitar and keyboards, and African-American funk influences.
The lineup includes Lunise Morse on lead and backing vocals; Richard Morse on lead and backing vocals; Chenel Belizaire on kone (horn) and percussion; Emmanuel Jules on kone and percussion; Wichemon Thelus on tanbu (barrel drum); William Morse on rhythm guitar and backing vocals; Max Blanc on drum kit and backing vocals; Yonel Vendredi on lead guitar and backing vocals; Willy Calixte on bass and backing vocals.
Additional musicians include Dieveut Thelus on tanbu; Medard on kone and percussion; Romane Boniface on kone and percussion; Mackenson Jules on kone and percussion; anis St. Fleur on backing vocals; Wilson Emmanuel on bass; Esaus Augustin on keyboards and backing vocals; and Andrew Weiss on bass and keyboards.
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.