Transcendance

Ray Lema's "Transcendance" is a captivating journey into the rich, hypnotic world of gnawa music. Released on October 19, 2018, under the One Drop label, this album is a testament to Lema's mastery of blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary influences. Spanning just over 43 minutes, the eight-track album offers a deep dive into the soulful, trance-inducing sounds that gnawa is known for.

From the opening track "Transcendance" to the final notes of "Chimères," Lema weaves a tapestry of sounds that are both ancient and fresh. "Zoukissa" and "Congo Rhapsody" showcase his ability to infuse traditional gnawa with elements of African dance music, creating a vibrant, danceable energy. "Kivu's Blues" and "Sin" delve into more introspective territories, highlighting Lema's skill as a storyteller and his deep connection to the musical traditions of his homeland.

"3ème bureau" and "Le bout du chemin" offer a more experimental approach, blending gnawa with electronic and ambient textures, while "Anouk" provides a moment of pure, unadulterated gnawa bliss. Throughout the album, Lema's virtuosity on the guembri, a three-stringed lute central to gnawa music, is on full display, making "Transcendance" a must-listen for fans of world music and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the gnawa tradition.