Like the insert in the CD case from Higher Octave Music says, Les Nubians "defy description and categorization." The material is off-beat. "Les Nubians" 's previous album in 1998 broke recent records for French-language sales in the united $tates, so for many, this album was long-awaited.
There is some synthetic pop in here and some reggae influence. "Brothers & Sisters" is pretty much a reggae song. On the other hand, some people even refer to "Les Nubians" as hip-hop and R&B.(1)
"Les Nubians" are two French-speaking Black sisters. They toured the United $tates just as anti-French sentiment hit a high point. However, they claim that audiences did not blame them for anything done by France.
The name "Nubians" refers to an idea of Blackness. "Les Nubians" told Newsweek, "'Nubia was the first black civilization. It was a way to pay tribute and talk about black people as one people looking back in history. This is something we are still trying to defend as an idea: being one people.'"(2)
At the same time, "Les Nubians" ascribe to the idea that music is for the ineffable soul. Although they have spoken for peace, here is a Newsweek question and answer with the Nubians on the question of politics:
"'Does music transcend politics?
'
"'Yes, because it is not just words, it?s also vibrations?-something
invisible that talks directly to people. Politics are so far from us, they deal
with theory. Music is the expression of the death of our souls. If you think
about it, all the big events that touch our humanity, such as war, are often
foreshadowed by musicians. Maybe because musicians are more sensitive, more in
touch with the base, and feel real life.'"(2)
"Les Nubians" have a song against war in this album and "j'veu d'la musique" celebrates all the world's music. Nonetheless, do not expect heavy politics on this album. If you enjoyed the previous "Les Nubians" album, you may like this one too.
Notes:
1. http://www.giantstep.net/artists/viewartist.asp?artistid=153
2. http://www.msnbc.com/news/899507.asp
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