Review of Barbican Concert, London
Mon 4 April 2011
A Prophet of our times?
Africa’s leading Reggae artist came, saw and conquered London on a truly memorable night that had the crowd thrown into a dance frenzy from the very start. The long awaited debut delivered an unstoppable performance, the ‘encore’ alone lasting more than 10 minutes...Launching into ‘Political War’, 'African Revolution’, Je Dis Non! and other memorable songs on his new album; classic reggae anthems appealing to a new social movement striving for peace, good governance, fairness, equality and justice, the fans were never going to be disappointed.
His colossal stage presence was reminiscent of a bull-fighter or super heavyweight boxing champion; his music artistry mixed with acrobatic kicks and high energy, and yet possessed with a calm spirituality. This was an amazing show, and will surely enhance his already formidable reputation. “African Revolution is the Black people’s movement…” he reasoned in the after-show interview, calling for his fellow Africans not to abandon their dreams of a great and united continent… challenging others to greater aspirations. At the same time he criticised bad leadership; oppressive and corrupt regimes, which have for so long destroyed the very fabric of African societies and blighted the future of its children through a lack of education, opportunities and unity.
Tiken Jah Fakoly is much more than just a musician.
He is a leader of the new African Revolution, at the epicentre of its revival and renewed sense of pride, political awakening, cultural heritage and economic renaissance. He epitomises a new generation of social values and awareness.
The man, the music and the message is a timely reminder of the current political earthquakes across the world, and a wake-up call to unite against human oppression.
African Revolution album is available on Wrasse Records
More info on Tour dates, Albums @
http://www.myspace.com/tikenjah
More info on Tour dates, Albums @
http://www.myspace.com/tikenjah
