Womad

Babylon Circus

Rebel music from the self-proclaimed "French gypsy dancehall punksters"

"What we found there wasn't what we'd been told by the press. It wasn't as violent as it was supposed to be. Our music opened doors to people in the streets." Babylon Circus singer David Baruchel is talking about the band's decision to embark on a month-long tour of Syria three months into the Iraq war, making them the only European band with the balls to play at that year's La Fete De La Musique in Damascus. It's a typical endeavour for the free-wheeling French collective, a group of spirited gentlemen whose music they see as "a way to fight, to be active in today's society rather a victim". Their sound certainly bears the hallmark of the rebel, earning inevitable comparisons with compatriots Les Negresses Vertes and Mano Negra, while also making room in the pot for reggae, dub, a little Balkan gypsy flavour and plenty of theatrical flair. Never finding the slightest contradiction in making irresistibly danceable music that communicates an erudite, articulate message, Babylon Circus are an admirable bunch, moving hearts, minds and limbs.

Biog by Nige Tassell