Many years after Frantz Casseus’ solo guitar made history in Haitian music, his influence continues unabated, and not only among Haitians. Recently, an American guitar player called Marc Ribot recounted how in New York, Frantz Casseus played a major role in teaching him how to play guitar. Later, Amos Coulanges played in numerous concerts around the world. Last year, Ricardo Frank (Ti Plume), guitarist for Les Ambassadeurs , put out a wonderful album. And now, Marc Mathelier’s guitar album, "Sounds and Legends" is an excellent addition to this group of elite guitarists. Mathelier’s treatment of Haitian classics such as "Kouzin, Yellow Bird, Banm Pam sans dous, Trois bébés, etc." is delicate, at times nostalgic and full of sentiment. Many of these melodies will bring back cherished memories from old times, particularly for our elders, the "gran moun lontan yo". Mathelier dedicated this album to the memories, among others, of Frantz Casseus, and for good reason, as the source of his inspiration is clear. In sum, I would say that this is a necessary addition to the collection of Haitian guitar music lovers.

Since he produced his first album, Jacques Sauveur Jean has become known as the "Prince de l’amour". His most recent album "Santimantal" just confirms this title. With songs like "Ne t’en vas pas, Santimantal, Tell me what to do, Te amo, Diana mwen renmen ou, etc.", Jacques Sauveur Jean is at ease either in Haitian Kreyòl, in Spanish, English or French. He is the great romantic whose heart is always bleeding. His melodies are quite pretty, the musical support is very competent and the lyrics set the stage for the perfect romantic interlude. Even when he plays some Konpa dirèk, he slows it down and the lyrics are as romantic. I found this album quite nice actually. Even if you are not very romantic, you will enjoy the melodies and the musical rrangement, which just fit without being overwhelming.

Recently, I was finally able to learn a bit of what happened to "Boukan Ginen". Those who follow Haitian Roots Music will surely remember Eddy François, formerly from Boukman Eksperyans, who went on to form Boukan Ginen. A few weeks ago in Haiti, Jean Dorvil, one of the musicians, better known as "Patchouko" was giving an interview, explaining that there were internal problems besetting the group, but that he was confident that they would be solved soon. Apparently, Eddy François, the maestro, seems to be going through some rough times. Patchouko was unwilling to discuss in public what he felt were internal matters. It is however unfortunate that such a good group be facing this kind of situation. Its most recent album, "Rèv an nou", did not, it seems to me, receive enough recognition. In typical fashion, Eddy François sings his frustration with those who are abusing authority and power. Throughout the album, we hear the cries of anticolonialism, the chastising of bad leaders, the plight of children etc. Eddy François bares his soul and expresses what so many among the majority of Haitians feel and live every day of the year. In the title song, "Rèv an nou" he makes an appeal on behalf of the children all over the world. There are also some excellent musical arrangements. A very good acquisition.

Following the trend, one of the earliest albums from Nemours Jean - Baptiste, the creator of the Konpa dirèk, has been reissued. Tunes like "Rythme commercial, Nou ce yoyo ou ce ficelle, Pauvre Petit Michel, Contredanse No. 6 etc", will bring back a lot of memories, particularly singer Louis Lahens. Nemours Jean - Baptiste had just come back from a tour in New York when this album was cut. It still sounds fresh to me. Another addition to your collection of oldies but goodies. There is more on the way.

Serge Bellegarde