About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of reggae rhythms infused with sharp political commentary and French folk influences."

Where they were

By the time 'Mamagubida' was released in December 1998, Tryo had already established themselves as significant figures in the French reggae scene with their debut album 'Humour Noir' in 1996. This sophomore effort solidified their reputation, showcasing a more mature sound while maintaining their signature blend of humor and social critique.

Why it matters

'Mamagubida' resonated widely, reaching high positions on French charts and contributing to the growing popularity of reggae music in France during the late '90s. The album's politically charged lyrics sparked discussions about social issues, demonstrating the power of music as a form of activism.

Essential tracks

  • "L’Hymne de nos campagnes" — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its anthemic quality, celebrating rural life while critiquing contemporary societal issues.
  • "Pour un flirt avec la crise" — The song cleverly addresses economic instability through a catchy melody, blending humor with poignant commentary that reflects the band's style.
  • "La Révolution" — This track embodies the spirit of resistance and change, highlighting Tryo's commitment to social justice in an infectious reggae rhythm.
  • "Yakamonéyé" — An extended piece that showcases Tryo's musical versatility and lyrical depth, it weaves together themes of societal observation with rich instrumentation.
  • "La Misère d’en face" — This track stands out for its empathetic portrayal of suffering and struggle, encapsulating Tryo's ability to convey serious themes through accessible music.

Release Date

December 1, 1998

Artist Origin

France

Tracklist

  1. 1 L’Hymne de nos campagnes 3:25
  2. 2 Pour un flirt avec la crise 3:47
  3. 3 C’est du roots 4:06
  4. 4 Salut ô 7:12
  5. 5 La Révolution 3:36
  6. 6 Regardez les 3:44
  7. 7 La Misère d’en face 4:58
  8. 8 Un homme qui aime les femmes 4:36
  9. 9 La Main Verte 2:13
  10. 10 France Telecom 2:48
  11. 11 Yakamonéyé 7:39
  12. 12 Les Soldats de plomb 4:45
  13. 13 Suprématie 5:29
  14. 14 Babylone 6:34
  15. 15 J’ai rien prévu pour demain 11:01