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Danceable politics

Son Egal
Son Egal
By Tarika

Xenophile Records: 1997

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This review first appeared in the March 14, 1997 issue of the North County Times.

Tarika plays an infectious, bubbly dance music from the African island nation of Madagascar. This is no mere disco music, though – the English translations of the lyrics show that in some parts of the world even dance music carries potent political messages.

Still, even the most self-righteous activist couldn't resist dancing to the grooves this quintet lays down. The vocals are smooth and charming, the stringed instruments are exotic yet near enough an acoustic guitar to sound familiar. And the songs themselves are fresh and accessible.