Madagascar

Njava is a band from the southern Madagascar’s Antemoto tribe comprised of two sisters & three brothers. When they formed in the late 80s, after Madagascar was able to free itself from the tyranny of military rule ending nearly two decades of isolation, they were an electric band. Since the early 90s they have focused on traditional Malagasy music. Njava brings a modern sensibility to the traditional music of their homeland. They blend fluid guitar melodies, native percussion, & beautiful harmonies in an earthy yet sophisticated mix, striking a fine balance between old & new.

Their debut album, Vetse, was released in 1999. It was produced by influential Japanese producer Makoto Kubota.

On Vetse, the group’s five siblings are: Monique "Monika" Rasoanirina – vocals; Gabrielle "Lala" Raharimahala - vocals & percussion; Theogene "Dozzy" Randriamanpionana - guitar, marovany (a type of steel-string box zither from Madagascar used in Malagasy music), & vocals; Patrick "Pata" Randriamanjava – percussion & vocals; & Maximin "Max" Randriamanjava – bass & vocals.

 Njava – Veste, Hemisphere 99265, 1999. 

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Tracklist –

Paoary

Hitologn’azy

Jiboty

Hallatsa

Belina

Vezon-Driaky

Taray

Vetse

Lahy Raty

Takaliro Mazava

Enjoy,

NØ