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Daara JBoomerang Wrasse/UMG Emerging from Senegal, Daara J hope to make an impact in the competitive world of hip-hop. But unlike many groups and artists that sprout from the USA, Daara J (which means "school of life" in Senegal's national language of Wolof) write rhymes to express their thoughts and emotions, rather than projecting an ideal image or the "bling bling" mentality of many of today's artists. The album title itself gives an insight into the deep spirituality of N'Dango D, Aladji Man and Faada Freddy: they see hip-hop as being born in Africa, brought up in America; then hip hop artists such as themselves bring hip-hop back home, acting much like a boomerang. This is a tight album. Daara J's tracks are based on having a superlative melody, complemented well with safely produced beats. This musical formula is reminiscent of the sound of the now defunct Fugees, while the group rap in Wolof, French and English. They also utilise other cultural influences, as highlighted by the Cuban influenced Esperanza, with its beautiful use of guitars. Other album highlights include the high energy Bopp Sa Bopp, the raw sounds of Si La Vie N'est Pas Belle and the down tempo style of Exodus. Daara J deliver a refreshing outlook for lovers of hip-hop and world music. That they're a headline act in this year's Womadelaide is an excellent decision by both the organisers and Daara J themselves.  |
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