Hery Kabôsy, a multi-instrumentalist from Madagascar, has made a name for himself in the music scene with his unique instrument, the kabôsy. He believes that there is something magical about this rustic, typically Malagasy guitar that allows him to showcase his identity. As a sideman to many Malagasy artists, including Lego, Hery Kabôsy has had the opportunity to travel the world, performing at festivals in Germany, France, and Côte d'Ivoire.
Hery Kabôsy's musical journey began at the age of 13 when he first took the stage with his kabôsy. He was part of an orchestra called The Panthers, where he only performed interpretations. However, as he continued to play, he fell in love with the instrument. His passion for music was likely influenced by his father, who was the head of music for the government. Hery Kabôsy prefers the chromatic kabôsy, which offers a wider range of chords compared to the diatonic kabôsy.
Over the past decade, Hery Kabôsy has been leading his own group, which includes Hery Tuba on bass guitar, Tiana on drums, Ndaty on percussion, Tel on trumpet, and Fenitra on trombone. The group is known for their eclectic music, which often blends traditional Malagasy rhythms like salegy, tsapiky, and vaky sôva with blues and rock. The band members, all multi-instrumentalists, share a strong bond, with Hery Kabôsy being like a big brother to them.
The group's music often carries educational messages, such as their song Mpisolovava, which aims to raise awareness among young girls about the dangers of sex tourism. Hery Kabôsy believes that as an artist, it is his responsibility to educate the population, especially in a country like Madagascar. The band's versatility is also a key to their success, with each member able to play multiple instruments.
Hery Kabôsy and his group are preparing for their upcoming concerts, where they will be performing a special set featuring only kabôsy instruments. The band members are skilled in playing various instruments, particularly wind instruments. They value live performances, which allow them to connect with the audience and showcase their music in its purest form.
Hery Kabôsy's kabôsy playing style is unique, with him often experimenting with different techniques to produce distinct sounds. For example, on their song Rangitra, he plays the kabôsy by scratching the strings instead of strumming them, creating a higher-pitched sound. This experimentation is a result of his research into the various forms and models of kabôsy found across different regions of Madagascar.
As the group looks forward to their next performances, they are excited to share their music with their fans. With their energetic live shows and meaningful lyrics, Hery Kabôsy and his group are sure to continue making waves in the Malagasy music scene. Their music serves as a reflection of their cultural heritage, while also showcasing their creativity and innovation.
Key points
- Hery Kabôsy's unique energy and passion for his kabôsy instrument have made him a standout in the Malagasy music scene.
