In stark contrast to the boastful, dancefloor-focused hip pop happening in the United States, a Congolese-cum-Belgian artist brings a new brand of hip hop he calls “Afropean”. Baloji, a 30-something musician stuck in spirit between Belgium and the Congo, has crafted his debut album as a soulful return to his African roots. The instrumental base for Baloji’s music is purely African in nature, but his voice speaks clearly in a French language interpretation of his spirit. Amongst Baloji’s singles is a track titled “Siku Ya Baadaye – Independence Cha Cha”, which begins as a casual, rhythmic African cha cha, but is centered by Baloji’s strong, confident French vocal. It is like nothing you’ve heard yet, and even if you’re not French fluent, Baloji presents a refreshing, entertaining and authentic cultural experience in music. [baloji via coolhunting]
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