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Togolese rapper and political activist Yao Bobby joins Swiss noisemaker Simon Grab in an unmissable hi-NRG power duo.
An intense sound battle arises from the explosive ewe and french bars detonated by Bobby into the bubbling carpet of fried bass pulsations that Grab summons out of his analogue feedback electronics. Whilst the lyricism deals with topics surrounding the colonial aftermath of the west & its persistent grip on the continent, a punk-dub attitude frames the ever-evolving sonic revolutions, resulting in an authentic expression of experimental hip hop, free-form rap and noise.
The two critically acclaimed albums "Diamonds" (2019) and "WUM" (2023) - released on Ossia's LavaLava Records, have propelled their showcases on multiple stages across Europe and Africa, with an highlight performance (masterfully video-taped by director Jan Moss) at Nyege Nyege Festival in 2022.
Under the belt, the duo counts various compilation appearances on Nyege Nyege Tapes, Syrphe and Exist Records. They are currently working on a third album that will see the light in 2025. More info to come soon...
"This is music that stands up to our modern madness while providing a gloriously righteous salve."
The Wire Magazine
"As a collaboration, they are just unlike anything else. Highlight of the year!”
Anthony Chalmers, Baba Yaga's Hut London
“A raw, honest attitude and forward momentum that is unmistakeable in its intent to crush borders sonically, socially, and politically.”
LavaLava Records
Yao Bobby & Simon Grab are currently open for booking. Get in touch for more info.
