Citadel’s Café Réfugié EP: A Soulful Symphony of Belonging and Diversity
Citadel’s five-track EP, Café Réfugié, is a powerful reflection of human connection and cultural togetherness. This extraordinary release highlights music’s ability to unite people and tell stories of perseverance, community, and shared experiences.
The group was formed in 2018 at Cork’s Kinsale Road Accommodation Centre, bringing together musicians from Burundi, Angola, South Africa, Malawi, and other countries. Through their diverse backgrounds, Citadel has created a unique sound that embodies stories of displacement, hope, and adaptation.
The EP opens with "Tell Them I Said Hello-Nathiriza," a song that fuses haunting African rhythms with delicate guitar melodies. The track pays tribute to lasting relationships and the enduring strength of memory.
The second track, "Na Lingi Yo, Mama” (“I love you, Mama” in Lingala), is a heartfelt ode to family and heritage. Its rich layers of rhythm and emotive vocals showcase Citadel’s ability to bring deeply personal experiences to life through music.
“We Can Do Better” shifts the focus to a broader message of unity and compassion. This uplifting anthem inspires listeners to consider the importance of empathy and collective action through its poignant lyrics and harmonies.
Next is “Jikelele (Oh Fana Naye),” a vibrant celebration rooted in South African musical traditions. Its lively beats and infectious energy create a joyous atmosphere that encourages listeners to embrace togetherness and movement.
The EP closes with “Senzenina,” a reimagined version of the South African protest song. Sung in Xhosa and Zulu, it reflects on historical struggles while posing the universal question, “What have we done?” This interpretation is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.
Created during a time of global challenges and personal hardship, Café Réfugié is more than an EP, it’s a cultural achievement. Citadel’s performances at major events like Electric Picnic and the Festival of Belonging have cemented their role as ambassadors for unity and cultural expression.
Led by their manager, Roos Demol, the group uses music to amplify the voices of refugees. Initiatives such as the Overpowering Noise with Music tour emphasize their commitment to building bridges and fostering healing within communities.
Café Réfugié stands as a beacon of hope and connection, blending tradition and innovation in a way that resonates with audiences from all walks of life. Citadel’s heartfelt music reminds us of the unifying power of art.
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Website: https://citadelworldmusic.band
