Gnawa Diffusion
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Gnawa Diffusion is an Algerian Gnawa music band based. The group's lead singer, Amazigh (literally meaning 'Free Man' in the Tamazight), is the son of the Algerian writer and poet Kateb Yacine. Although there is a strong Gnawa influence, the band is noted for its mix of reggae and roots music.
This is a list of the members of the band:
- Amazigh Kateb : vocal and gimbri
- Mohamed Abdenour : mandolin, banjo, kerkab, choir
- Pierre Bonnet : bass
- Philippe Bonnet : drums
- Salah Meguiba : Keyboard, oriental percussion , choir
- Pierre Feugier : guitar, choir, karkabs
- Abdel Aziz Maysour
- Amar Chaoui : percussionist, choir
Gnawa Diffusion is very popular in Algeria and is renowned in many other countries like Morocco and France.
The band's lyrics are in Arabic, Tamazight, French and English. Gnawa Diffusion started their career in 1993 with the release of the album Légitime différence.
The lead singer's lyrics are often controversial. Themes range from discussions of poverty in Algeria or corruption in government to denunciations of global military actions and perceived imperialism. Nevertheless, in spite of a strong political direction, this band also has more entrancing numbers which focus on self-determination and improvement.
[edit] Discography
- Fucking Cowboys, 2007, D'JAMAZ Production
- Souk System, 2003, Warner
- DZ Live, 2002, Next Musique
- Bab el Oued - Kingston, 1999, Musisoft
- Algeria, 1997, Melodie
- Légitime différence, 1993
[edit] External links
- Official homepage
- [1] - an interview with the lead singer in english.
- [2]- French interview.