I’m not sure when the first CD of the French Creole band Delgres arrived via airmail to World Music Show headquarters. But I do remember being pulled immediately in by the group’s funk, rhythm and political messages–and that was before even reading the liner notes and web bio about the history of how Delgres came to be.
Their sound, to use the metaphor of Cajun music is like a gumbo, full of swerves, spices and hidden delights–from Danae’’s dobro guitar, to Rafgee’s rhythmic, masterful sousaphone swinging to Baptiste Brondy’s curvy drumming, the band is a mouthful of sound.
I don’t want to ruin it all with writing it all out because I want to you listen to my conversation with leader/founder Pascal Danae’, in which we talk about the history of slavery in France, Napoleon, where the name Delgres comes from and why sousaphones can replace bass guitars.
Throughout our conversation, we mentioned some of the songs off their two albums–Mo Jodi and 4am (which we talk about the meaning behind), so here are some cool videos to check out. And, speaking of checking out, they’ll be coming to the states soon–appropriately New Orleans, so go see Delgres if you can.
4 Ed Maten
Just Vote for Me
Mo Jodi
Mr. President
Tune into the World Music Show, Saturday every Saturday from 6-8pm via this website or in Central Virginia on VPM on 93.1 or 107.3FM. Follow Ian on Twitter at: VPM_IanStewart or on Facebook at the World Music Show on VPM.
