Strut continues its essential compilation series of Indian Ocean sounds with ‘Alefa Madagascar’, the first compilation to document the unique culture of salegy, soukous and soul on the island during the ‘70s and ‘80s. ‘Alefa Madagascar’ showcases the rich variety of sounds during this heyday of Malagasy music: Roger Georges’ ‘Mama’ and Jean Kely et Basth’s ‘Andosy Mora’ bring the raw energy of salegy, influential band Los Matadores drop military drums and Hammond soul in the classic ‘Andeha Hanarato’; Mahaleo’s ‘Izahay Mpamita’ showcases the band’s powerful folk sound, a crucial voice emerging from the Rotaka farmer and student protests of 1972, while Terak’Anosy Group work around a stomping Congolese guitar groove. The era paved the way for many of the household names of Malagasy music today including Jaojoby, D’Gary and Lego.

1. Jean Kely Et Basth - Andosy Mora
2. Soymanga - Moramora Zoky
3. Roger Georges - Mama
4. Ny Anjarasoa - Mahonena
5. Charles Maurin Poty - Amboliako Fary
6. Mahaleo - Izahay Mpamita
7. Papa James - Ngtma Hoe
8. Los Pipitos Et Leur Ensemble - B.B. Gasy
9. Jeanot Rabeson Et Son Orchestre - Jazz Sega
10. Feon'ala - Farahy
11. Terak' Anosy Group - Soaliza
12. Saka Dit the King - Ody Ody (Tsy Mentsy Mandroso)
13. Michael - Razana Tsy Ho Meloko
14. Falafa - Rapela
15. Los Matadores - Andeha Hanarato
16. Nino Rafah - Oa Niny J
17. Kaiamba Orchestra - Tokatoka
18. Atrefy Andriana - Zaka Tiako Mamolaka Keriko