Chronique no. 39 | Chronique Index

Even though it has been a while since I reviewed Konpa Dirèk CDs, do not think that the format has been dormant, far from it. I have a few goodies that Konpa Lovers will enjoy.

If you are looking for a nice collection of different Konpa Groups on a single CD, Konpa Gold is an excellent choice. The music is not new, but the choice of songs was well made. There is something for all tastes. "Marie la Folle" (Mario de Volcy), "Ma Seule Folie" (Djakout Mizik), "Si male" (Ti Kabzy), "Oupila" (Dadou Pasquet), "Santimantal" (Jacques S. Jean) and many more. Of particular interest to me is the fact that the author of the CD included a band which generally is not featured on this kind of CDs: Tropicana's big hit "Ti Madanm", is featured alongside Konpa groups. I hope this is a trend and that Orchestre Septentrionnal will also find its way on one of those CDs in the future. It can only boost the promotion of Haitian music. So you can include this CD in your collection of Konpa compilations, it will fit right in.

The next CD recently released is that of Haitian guitarist Jackenson. His album is nice. He is supported by very good Konpa musicians, among them one of my favorite bass players, Yves A. Abel . I suppose he could be classified as a musician from the so-called New Generation Groups. He is quite a composer. All eight songs on the album have been written by him. Interestingly enough, the trumpet player's name seems to indicate that he is Japanese, one more indication that we find more and more Japanese mastering not only Haitian Rasin music, but also Konpa Dirèk. I particularly like tune No. 3, a kind of slow Konpa beat with some solid brass arrangements and a nice guitar solo. Jackenson, who is the lead guitar, has a style which reminds me of guitarist Makarios Cesaire ; he has that same kind of laid back , soft touch in his solos. Tune No. 5 is a strong defense of Haitian musicians who are being abused by unscrupulous producers. An appeal is made to them so that Haitian artists join forces for a common defense of their rights. Tune No. 8 is also a nice tune recalling how things used to be in Haiti, in short a nostalgic trip back in time. A strong appeal is made to Haitians in the Diaspora to get involved, and for those in Haiti to make an effort to keep the country clean.

The mixing on this CD is pretty good and guess what? For the most part, the lyrics do make sense, whether the theme is love, the Konpa Dirèk beat itself, or something else. This should be a nice addition to your Konpa collection.

In my opinion. one of the best Konpa album releases so far in 2000 is the second volume of Djazz la, a group comprised of an impressive array of Konpa musicians: Yves Abel, Makarios Césaire, Shedly Abraham, Ralph Condé, and so many more. I really like the concept used in this CD. The songs are a series of medleys very nicely put together and bridged by a number of very short interludes. You find this same pattern on Emmeline Michel 's CD (which came out later). Check out this interpretation of Ricky Martin's mega hit "La Vida Loca". The transition to Konpa Dirèk is perfect.

The medley "Hommages aux Frères Déjean" is one of my favorites on the CD, it is simply well arranged. Listen to the harmony of the voices , the brass section and underneath, the keyboard. The drummer Shedly Abraham has such a sense of timing! Ever since listening to him on the "Karess" album, I have become a fan. Throughout the medleys, you will recognize the sound of Eddy Brisseaux on the trumpet, Makarios Césaire on the guitar, and the voice of Jacques Sauveur Jean. I find this CD very enjoyable. Listen for example to Tune No. 10, a wonderful medley of classic, easily recognizable melodies that every Haitian musician used to play: "Buenas noches, mi amor", "Venus mon amour", "Les feuilles mortes" (with Eddy Brisseaux on the trumpet) . The transition from one song to the other is seamless. There is also a very nice Konpa interpretation of Tina Turner's hit: "What's love got to do with it", very ably sung by Marilyn O'Brien.

The mixing is very good, the arrangements are fine and the beat is steady and solid. And I am happy to report that the lyrics are decent, which is why I highly recommend this CD for your collection, you will like it, I am sure.

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Other News

You will be happy to know that there is another Eddy Prophète CD coming out soon. This time, he is accompanied by master drummer Azor and the CD was recorded during a tour in Japan. I am still waiting also for Gina Dupervil's CD, in which she is also supported by Eddy and other musicians.

About three weeks ago, les Ambassadeurs played in New Jersey and they sounded pretty good. Pascal Albert came from Haiti. In short, the whole gang was there. They seem to be ready to make a serious move to restablish themselves on the musical stage with possible tours. I will keep you posted as more concrete information becomes available.

Serge Bellegarde