Embark on a musical odyssey as we dive into the captivating world of Ziskakan, the pioneers of Maloya music from Réunion Islands. Fronted by the charismatic Gilbert Pounia, this extraordinary band has etched their name as one of the most famous musical phenomena to emerge from the island. Born in 1979, Ziskakan is not just a band; it's a cultural movement that fuses traditional maloya with modern techniques, creating an electrifying genre known as electric maloya. Adding an extra layer to their sonic palette, Ziskakan incorporates Indian instruments, bridging continents and cultures through their music.
Awards and Acclaim: Celebrating Excellence Across Continents
Ziskakan, with their rugged charm, has not only conquered the picturesque landscapes of Réunion but has earned accolades on a global stage. The band clinched the Best Group and Artist Award in Africa in 1994, followed by the prestigious Best African Group and Artist at the Kora Awards in 1997. The Cesars de la Musique in 2007 crowned them the Best Group, solidifying their status as musical luminaries.
Political Origins: Echoes of Liberation Through Maloya
Beyond the melodies, Ziskakan emerged as an underground cultural and political movement with a profound mission. Rooted in a rich history, the name itself, meaning 'Until when?' in Creole, reflects the band's commitment to liberate the 200-year-old Creole language and preserve the traditional Maloya music. This musical genre, once forbidden during the French colonial era, served as a powerful tool for expression and resistance among the enslaved.
From Sugarcane Fields to Global Stages: Ziskakan's Evolution
Ziskakan's journey is a testament to resilience and passion. Originating as a group playing in sugarcane fields in the late '70s, they have evolved into in-demand globetrotters. The current lineup, featuring talents like bassist Wazis Loy, drummer Frédéric Riesser, tabla player Shakti Ramchurn, guitarist Clency Sumac, and pianist Damien Hervio, showcases a collective love for Maloya that transcends borders.
🇮🇳 Love for India: Where Roots and Rhythms Intersect
The heart of Ziskakan beats with a collective love for India, a sentiment that traces back to Gilbert Pounia's fourth-generation Indian heritage. The band's connection with Indian culture runs deep, influencing everything from their music to rituals. With a passion for India, they've graced cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Puducherry, Goa, and Chennai. Their performance at the Global ISAI Festival in Chennai stands as a testament to their affinity for the country.
Maloya Unleashed: The Heartbeat of Réunion
Ziskakan's genre, Maloya, is a musical tapestry rooted in traditional Creole music. Gilbert Pounia explains that Maloya's foundation lies in a symphony of percussion instruments, including the rouler bass drum, the kayamb raft rattle, the piker bamboo cylinder, and more. The result is an organic and vibrant sound, best experienced live, surrounded by friends and the infectious energy of a Ziskakan performance.
A Fusion of Eras and Poetic Souls: The Ziskakan Signature
Ziskakan weaves a rich tapestry of tradition and innovation by infusing modern techniques into traditional maloya, creating the unique genre known as electric maloya. Their lyrics, drawn from early poems by Dev Virahsawmy, including those from Les Lapo Kabri Gazuyé, add a poetic depth to their sonic offerings. It's not just music; it's a symphony of eras and poetic souls, resonating across time and culture.
Don't miss the chance to witness the rhythmic revolution that is Ziskakan live at The Maroon Room in Dispur, Guwahati, on the 3rd of March 2024. Let the beats of Réunion resonate with your soul as Ziskakan takes the stage for a night of musical magic!
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