Melstar finds Gokh-Bi System's “Voice of the Jeli” a very more-ish album, a wonderful accomplishment. “Voice of the Jeli” is soothing yet upbeat, using the gentle rhythmic melodies of the ekonting to give Gokh Bi System their distinctive sound. With plenty of infectious beats and heartfelt lyrics, the album quickly had her reaching for the repeat button.
You’ll be drawn to the beautiful voices of Backa Niang and Sana Ndiaye on ‘Solidarity’ which brought tears to my eyes. The track ‘Bakanam’ had me joining in, and hitting that repeat button with all the fervour of tassu – the drum, the rap, and the song.
In ‘Palestine’ the urgency of the message purports itself in the flow and heartfelt determination of the emcee. And Gokh – Bi System asks the questions and voices the answers that we are all thinking of – love and understanding. As with all the tracks the lyrics speak simple straightforward truth, and that’s why they resonate. The underpinning factor, I believe, that brings me back again and again and also leaves me with a bright hopeful positivity after listening to this album.
It’s multi – layered woven and then bound tight like a musical tapestry
“The Voice of the Jeli” is an important melange. It’s a taste of the past, present, and future of Senegal. The album encapsulates the importance of the Jeli ( a storyteller) in West Africa’s history, and pays homage to the messages and stories passed down. And how? Through the rhythmic flow of rap ‘Tassu’ intertwined with the sound of the ancient instrument the ekonting, and beautiful song. It works so well. It’s not rough, it’s not raw. It’s multi – layered woven and then bound tight like a musical tapestry. A satisfying cd that nevertheless left me wanting more.....an opportunity to see this crew live.
Reviewed by Melstar of United Nations Hip Hop About Melstar
