On her third album, the Cameroonian singer Valérie Ekoumè wants to proclaim loud and clear her rejection of inequalities and injustice. In contact with her elders, Coco Mbassi, Maceo Parker, Courtney Pine or Papa Wemba, she was able to observe the world evolve and concerns multiply. Monè is an eclectic record, but its melodic lightness does not alter its purpose. It is time to say what we see sadly repeating itself. Dissent is healthy indignation. Valérie Ekoumè is convinced!
Born in France, Valérie Ekoumè does not neglect her Cameroonian roots. Supported by the percussionist, drummer and conductor, Guy Nwogang, she wants to reaffirm her African identity through rhythm and harmony. Already in Djaale and Kwin Na Kingue, her previous albums, she highlighted the source of her creativity. Monè drives the point home and calls on a heritage heritage nourished by the cadences of Assiko, Essèwè, Makossa, Bikutsi, Ekang… These secular markers illuminate the discourse of the interpreter who plays with conventions for to be heard. His former complicity with the late Manu Dibango was certainly an asset. She had the opportunity to rub shoulders with a maestro attached to his land and his origins. This example was decisive and enriching.
Even if Valérie Ekoumè has been humming since her earliest childhood, her various and varied collaborations, over the years, have forged her range and accelerated her artistic development. Now more seasoned, she confidently sings her story and that of her ancestors. She does not hesitate to cite Miriam Makeba or Whitney Houston among her muses. The companionship of Guy Nwogang also legitimizes this audacity because this famous rhythmician, partner of Stevie Wonder, Salif Keita, Pee Wee Ellis, Pierre Akendengue or Étienne Mbappé, infuses his experience and his vitality. Ensuring a vibrant tempo is a requirement when an artist wants to fulfill his role as spokesperson. In these times of international turmoil, music can have an impact on consciences and arouse reflection.
Valérie Ekoumè does not claim to be the solution to the tribulations of the world, but she wants to contribute to the collective effort. Miso Na Mudumbu, the title that opens his new album, is an incentive to open your eyes and fight for your convictions. Does art have the power to change the course of history? Are words and notes effective against the excesses of our 21st century? It is relevant to ask all these questions. Valérie Ekoumè no longer wants to look away. We must face the problems of the present and try to respond to the challenges of our time. This is the promise of this exciting record whose hectic musicality should not temper the intention.
► The website of Valerie Ekoume.