The Amazon Got Something To Say... TransAmazoniennes Festival (Prequal)

Nomadic Massive en route to St. Laurent, French Guiana (L to R: Waahli, Lou, Nantali, JahFaith (of Inword) Meryem

When many think of "The Amazon" in conjurs up all kinds of exotic thoughts... the rainforest, "tribal" people and rare animal species of many varieties.  Music however may not immediately come to mind, but the people of the Amazon, that is the countries that surround the Amazon have a rich history and culture which the TransAmazoniennes Festival celebrates.  

Conceptualized in 1996 and now in it's 6th Edition the TransAmazoniennes Festival showcases local musicians from French Guiana and Suriname along side international acts.  This years festival theme is Culture and Resistance, which is so fitting for the current times as people across the world, from the streets of New York City to the streets of Libya, seek change and challenge the status quo. In addition to music the festival programming includes theatre, dance, exhibitions and workshops.  The 4 day festival kicks off today and features Prince Kaloni (Guyanes), Little Guerrier (Guyanes), Tomango (Guyanes) and several international acts including Julien Marley (Jamaica), Wanlov The Kubolor (Ghana) and Nomadic Massive (Canada).

To learn more about the TransAmazoniennes Festival: http://www.transamazoniennes.org/