TN TAPE
Young producer and DJ Pekodjinn, hailing from Geneva, Switzerland, has developed a distinctive musical style he refers to as “afromaghreb.” He has emerged as a significant figure within the Geneva subculture, integrating his Tunisian roots into the rap culture that shaped his early years as a graffiti artist. His sound is characterized by a futuristic amalgamation where traditional darbukas intersect with trap elements, and folk chants are interwoven with batida rhythms, all enhanced by dub-influenced percussions. The music he produces is marked by its strong percussive elements, energetic beats, and occasional depth, effectively blending his Tunisian heritage with the underground club scene of Europe. This innovative sound serves to empower the youth across the continent and the diaspora, encouraging a liberation from the legacies of colonialism, imperialism, and exoticism, while fostering a conscious musical narrative that challenges Western dominance. For a firsthand experience of his live performance, one can explore his recent DJ set for Boiler Room, which showcases heavy tracks and an intense atmosphere, marking him as an emerging talent worthy of attention.
Tunisian producer and DJ Pekodjinn has recently released his new album, TN Tape, through Les Disques Magnétiques and Les Disques Bongo Joe. This album follows his 2023 project, Dharba, and builds on the success of his notable Boiler Room performance in 2022, which highlighted SWANA (South West Asian and North African) sounds curated by the renowned Saudi DJ Nooriyah. In TN Tape, Pekodjinn explores his North African heritage while incorporating his experiences from his upbringing in Geneva, resulting in a captivating blend of diverse cultural influences.
The core of TN Tape is intricately connected to the musical heritage of Tunisia. The primary single, “Mansit,” features the impressive vocal abilities of Tunisian artist Sabry Mosbah. This compelling piece delves into issues of pride and identity, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of Black Maghrebians in Tunisia. Additionally, the notable track “Tunis N9” vividly illustrates the urban landscape of Tunisia, emphasizing the lively nightlife and the underground car culture prevalent in the city. A notable feature of the album is its collaboration with DJ Danifox from Lisbon’s Príncipe label, merging North African rhythms with the innovative beats of Portuguese batida. Pekodjinn expertly combines traditional North African instruments, like the darbuka, with contemporary music styles, such as trap and dub. This blend is evident in tracks where 1960s violin melodies are seamlessly integrated with modern dub effects, resulting in a fresh and engaging soundscape.
TN Tape exemplifies Pekodjinn’s skill in crafting a seamless integration of various musical influences. By merging his Tunisian heritage with the experiences he gained in Geneva, Pekodjinn has created an album that resonates on both a personal and universal level. This release not only solidifies his status within the international music landscape but also introduces the rich and diverse sounds of Tunisia to a broader audience. Through TN Tape, Pekodjinn encourages listeners to engage in an enchanting musical exploration that transcends geographical and cultural divides, honoring the blend of traditional and modern elements.
In addition to the musical elements, the visual and cultural influence of the Nike TN sneaker is prominent in Pekodjinn’s work. The Nike TN, also known as Tuned Air, has become a symbol of urban culture and identity. In the context of TN Tape, “TN” not only refers to Tunisia but also nods to the iconic sneaker. This dual significance underscores the album’s blend of traditional and contemporary elements, resonating with both local and global audiences. The image of different Nike TN sneakers worn by Pekodjinn and his collaborators captures this cultural fusion, symbolizing a shared heritage and a unified artistic vision.
THE TN TAPE IS NOW YOURS 📼
Buy on Bandcamp or at @bongojoerecords shop for 15 f/€/$.
