The second of Alma Negra’s 12 Rhythms Series is dedicated to the Maloya sound from La Réunion, a tiny island where a melting pot of cultures is reflected strongly in its music. Maloya’s roots go back to the time of slavery, its quick tempo and raw energy making it not only a popular dance music but also a powerful protest through movement. On their Maloya EP, the Basel collective pay tribute to the hypnotic rhythms that were feared both by the Catholic Church and the French government for the musical form’s subversive part in the rebellion against colonialism. The release revolves around two contrasting Alma Negra re-workings of Lindigo’s Tany Be. The first takes a classic call & response structure in 12/8 and 6/8 rhythms, adding a driving bass line and guitar licks. A solid 909-kick locks things in step, along with a sax flourish and FM synths. Their re-imagining of African and Tamil influences for modern dancers is a triumphant manifestation of the music’s origins.