Dogo Du Togo
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The Togolese artist Dogo Du Togo captures the sounds of Togolese festive and ritual rhythms on this very distinct body of work, where voodoo melodies and sharp wordplay are combined with acute guitar playing and call and response vocals.
“Zonva” starts the listen with Jaja Bashengezi’s fluid guitar complementing Dogo’s flowing 6 string, and the expressive singing sure does suit the breezy melodies, and “Sokewo” follows with group vocals alongside Boga Bass’ clever bass lines and the animated percussive sounds that populate the Akpesse-Bobobo rhythm.
“Obligation” arrives in the middle and emits a swift Gazo rhythm that’s quite contagious, while the vocally soulful “Nye Dzi” pairs the soothing percussion with very spirited guitar playing.
There are a few political focused songs present, including the police brutality themed “Adja”, which features Marc Elinam’s wise voice, and “Immigré” exits the listen with Serge Kodjovi’s guitar and Jojo’s skilled bass helping make for a very worldly and charming finish.
A listen that’s full of handclaps, shakers, bells, and acoustic instrumentation, Dogo wanted us to feel like we are in Togo when listening, and he certainly accomplished that with this cultured, personal and political endeavor that the entire would could embrace.
Travels well with: Lorraine Klaasen & Mongezi Ntaka- Ukubonga Gratitude; Katayoun Goudarzi/Shujaat Husain Khan- This Pale