Alesh - Reveil

Meet Alesh Chirwisa, a Kisangani native who raps in French, Swahili and Lingala. His music is a far cry from the bling and boasting that is all too common in Congolese rumba, ndombolo, and main stream American hip-hop. In contrast with these styles, Alesh’s music is highly political and constantly sparking debate amongst fellow Congolese. Out of the chaos and instability of the 2011 elections comes the latest single from Alesh entitled ‘Reveil,’ or ‘the Awakening’. The song presents a vivid and complex picture of the Congo at this critical juncture in the country’s history. A combination of frustration and hope, Alesh’s poignant lyrics reflect how, in many ways, both Congolese leaders and citizens have failed their country. In a country with strict censorship, it is rare to hear such an honest, introspective, and brave account of the Congolese struggle.