Tiken Jah Fakoly – Acoustic (Chapter Two Records, 2024)
Tiken Jah Fakoly’s latest album, Acoustic (Chapter Two Records, 2024), delivers effective messages through straightforward language. For instance, the track “Plus rien de m’étonne” emphasizes Africa’s historical divisions, underscoring the artist’s Pan-African stance. Collaborating with French reggae sensation Naâman, Tiken Jah Fakoly presents a kora-infused acoustic rendition of his 2004 hit, maintaining his commitment to justice and historical truth.
Acoustic embodies simplicity and elegance, reflecting Tiken Jah Fakoly’s African identity. Produced by Jonathan Quarmby, the album strips away synthetic elements, focusing on organic sounds. Tiken’s voice, supported by various musicians, creates a comforting ambiance amidst life’s challenges, as seen in the accompanying web documentary.
Spanning fourteen tracks, Acoustic is a comprehensive overview of Tiken Jah Fakoly’s twenty-seven-year career. The album, rooted in African sounds, introduces instruments like guitars, ngoni, and balafon, enhancing the traditional reggae riddims. Tiken’s desire to infuse African elements into reggae is evident throughout the album, filling the void left by absent brass sections.
The album is primarily sung in French, although the songs “Alou Mayé” (2004) and “Djourou” (2000) are both in Diula, Ivory Coast’s Mandinka language.
Tiken Jah Fakoly’s journey parallels reggae legend Bob Marley’s quest for African connection. As a voice of protest in the Ivory Coast, Tiken Jah Fakoly’s music resonates globally, following the path of African reggae predecessors like Alpha Blondy and Lucky Dube.
Featuring guest artists like Bernard Lavilliers and Brazil’s Chico César, Acoustic unites activists through music. Malian singer Djely Tapa and Tiggs Da Author add diverse influences, while Mathieu Chédid’s contribution amplifies the album’s relevance.
Buy Acoustic.
Author: Dymond
