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CD: "Optimisme" by Songhoy Blues
Desert blues from West Africa is cultivated and lived by some bands and musicians. Songhoy Blues from Mali present "Optimisme", a courageous, rocking record.
Songhay is set to work - with a rebellious spirit and a lot of energy. The band is named after the Songhai ethnic group. Its members met in Bamako. As a band of the younger generation, they care about the future, about hope. Their music oscillates between rough hard rock riffs and delicate melodies. A skillful mixture of West African polyrhythms and classic guitar rock, with Led Zeppelin or The Clash sending their regards along the way.
Mali-inspired musical elements flow deep into the music of Songhoy Blues - a music that is both - empathetic and deliberate; severe and swift. Four musicians who are deeply dedicated, especially in the song "Badala". It's a powerful anthem against the patriarchy. Songhoy blues are fresh and unstoppable. Every time you give them a quick listen, they present something new. Skilfully loud. There is no escape.
This review was written in German by Pius Frey (Buchhandlung Comedia) and translated into English.