New Music From Granmoun Lele on Calabash Music

Zelvoula

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:23:23 -0600

"Zelvoula", the fourth album by Granmoun Lélé, presents us with the various facets of Lélé's character: he distills his poetry of inimitable phrasing in Creole and Malagasy and makes language dance like no one else can. Whether he expresses anger, humor or nostalgia, understanding his lyrics is not necessary to feel the emotion of his haunting voice.
Released in 2003 on Marabi.

Soleye

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:23:23 -0600

No melody instruments, just percussion and call and response vocals. Leader, songwriter, excellently soulful singer and drummer, 66 years old Granmoun Lélé must qualify for National Treasure status. Comes with fascinating documentation on Reunion's Culture and History.

Namouniman

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:23:23 -0600

Namounian is a celebration in memory of old Madagascar rites of death by Granmoun Lélé . Released in 1993

Dan Ker Lele

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:23:23 -0600

Gramoun Lélé uses a minimal percussion ensemble but with a very punchy, tight and energetic approach. Lélé has a powerful, expressive voice, and the female vocals that answer him are equally impressive with excellent tuning and some adventurous harmonies. The songs are well arranged, energetic, danceable and, despite every track having the same line-up the disc is not at all tiring to the ears. Granmoun Lélé is dscribed as the "Great Witchdoctor" and dynamite father of the music of Réunion, and we wouldn't disagree.