Ostinato Records releases first ever international album from Djibouti by Group RTD
New York’s Ostinato Records has recently released a new album from Djibouti-based ensemble Group RTD, titled The Dancing Devils of Djibout. This recording represents the first ever international record to come out of the small East African country.
Located on on the Horn of Africa and touching the Red Sea, this small (958,920 population) but culturally rich country remains one of the few places in the world where music is still entirely the domain of the state. Since their independence in 1977, Djibouti has been under one-party rule and until the release of this recording, no foreign entities have been permitted to work with any of the countries musicians or bands. Following a meeting with Ostinato Records and Djibouti senior officials, and a discussion of the country’s desire to open up to the world, Ostinato became the first label granted full authorization to access the national radio’s archives.
Even though the label gained access to tons of material, they quickly realized some of the best music that the region has ever produced was by Groupe RTD, an active multi-generational and national ceremony band, led by unheralded saxophone virtuoso Mohamed Abdi Alto. Featuring a uniquely original sound that blends Indian Bollywood-inspired vocals with Somali funk, Jamaican dub, soaring horn melodies, joyous synths, and tropical grooves, this nine-piece band is definitely one of East Africa’s best kept secrets.
Due to the agreed upon demands of the Djibouti government, this 10-track album was recorded in just three days using a state-of-the-art mobile recording studio that the label flew in just for the session.
Overall, this an absolutely brilliant and must-own recording from one of the most original sounding groups you’ll ever hear. Hopefully this release will open the door for the world to discover more incredible music and culture from this country. Highly recommended!
Group RTD — ‘The Dancing Devils of Djibout’
(Ostinato Records)
- Buuraha U Dheer (The Highest Mountains)
- Raga Kaan Ka’Eegtow (You Are the One I Love)
- Kuusha Caarey (The Pearl Necklace)
- Raani (Queen)
- Alto’s Interlude
- Uurkan Kaadonaya (I Want You)
- Halkaasad Dhigi Magtiisa (That’s Where You’ll Leave His Reward)
- Iiso Daymo (Look at Me)
- Suuban (Joy)
- Wiil Wille (The Jumping Man)
