Nominated for BBC R3's awards for world music in 2007 Les Boukakes based in France have gained a degree of national success and international interest. Formed in 1999, Les Boukakes comprise seven members from a variety of ethnic backgrounds – Tunisians, Corsicans, Italians and French who came together to create a sound system that developed into a high-energy band. Their name is a response to unkind comments thrown at them: “boukake” being a phonetic mixture of two typical racist insults.

But what of the music, its a firey mix fusing Rai and Rock and Reggae

"Like Rachid Taha, Les Boukakes are intent on fusing North African grooves, rock guitars and lyrics sung in French and Arabic. Vocalist Bachir Mokhtar cuts a commanding presence and songs leap from ancient desert blues to edgy electronic anthems. Through their energy and musical directness Les Boukakes aim to represent a new multicultural Europe where many cultures blend rather than clash and everyone comes together to dance and celebrate." Garth Cartwright BBC awards for world music web page.

You're going to be hearing a lot more about this fabulous band glorifying in their unique mix of cultures , a melting pot coming up with the wickedest sound imaginable.

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Les Boukakes