Search - Alpha Blondy :: Prophets

The Prophets

kpadou | 09/23/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is one of my favorite from alpha blondy. Simply because as you might have probably already guessed from the title, this album is based on religion. He goes on to talk about the role the prophets and the troubles they went through in spreading GOD's word in "ALLAH LEKA NETCHI". Then makes a parallel with us, later generations, in "CORINTHIENS", referring to a section of the bible, as to how important it is for every human being to stay in the straight path and hold on to the truth in our every day life. In closing with the religion theme, he again sings about hypocrisy, namely in "KOLOMBARIA", where he warns human beings about thinking they are cheating GOD when they are only furthering themselves into doing bad deeds.Then he touchily browses the troubles and tribulation people go through or have gone through in their life. Firsts in line are "BLACK MEN TEARS" and "JAH MUSIC", where he portrays some the troubles black people have been through during slavery time and the discrimination and vicious cycle black people are caught into nowadays. Secondly, he goes to an even more general subject, which is the struggle every body goes against in trying to lead a good and exemplary life in today's society in "FACE TO FACE". Finally, he returns to topics typical of the motherland, Africa. In "COUP DETAT", Alpha denounces the wrong doing of some African leaders who thirsty of power try to get it by any means necessary. And many times they do so by using military force. "BANANA" is specific to the Ivory Coast (Cote D'Ivoire) in that he tells the problems the Ivorian dairy farmer faces in trying to make a living from his work. Not only does he have to overcome the uncertainties of the weather but also producing quality food in convenient quantities in order to be able to sell it at a good price and make profit out of it.I recognize that often times Alpha using French, Dioula (an African language from the Ivory Coast), or English in trying to convey his message, makes it difficult for other who don't understand to grasp the concepts behind the melody. But again, it is only natural for him to do so and that is the reason why I tried to give as much details as I could fit in this slot. I would fiercely recommend this album to anybody found of reggae, good music or good singers able to bring attention to meaningful subjects. If you listen to this and like it you should also go for "SOS GUERRE TRIBALE" and "MASADA" which are other album of his dealing with similar subjects in a philosophical manner."

The Prophets

kpadou | 12/12/1999

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This definitely doesn't sound like one of the standard studio releases. Prophets is only for die-hard Alpha Blondy fans who may want to complete their collection. Kolombaria and Banana are good tracks, but the rest of the album is a bit quirky. I wouldn't expect a positive response if I played this album for anyone who is not a serious Alpha Blondy fan."