Toy Raha Toy

Toko Telo means ‘Group of Three’ in Malagasy and the band is a trio of Madagascar's top-level talent: D'Gary, Monika Njava and Régis Gizavo. With three of the country's best-known artists on one record, the high level of musicianship on display here is no surprise. The interplay between D'Gary's choppy, valiha-like guitar and Gizavo's thoughtful accordion is tight but relaxed, and with the soulful voice of Monika Njava and the group's gentle three-part harmonies, they sound much bigger than a trio while still keeping an intimate atmosphere. The title-track gives the best example, with each musician shining on their own as part of the whole. The music on offer here isn't quite as dancey as a lot of Malagasy music: there are quite a few laid-back pieces across the album. The sun shines through on every track though, whether the subject is raunchy or rueful.
Sadly, Gizavo never got to see the release of this album, as he passed away in July. This lends the album a bittersweet edge, but Toy Raha Toy nevertheless serves as a great memorial for the veteran musician; Toko Telo have promised to continue in 2018, keeping Gizavo's legacy alive.