Culture
DIY Spirit Takes Over Skate Park with Reviv'alt Event
Rar Project is a collective bringing together two generations of rock enthusiasts. Alternative rock takes over the capital this Sunday with the "Reviv'Alt" event at Skate Park Antanimena. Organized by the Rar Project collective and featuring five Malagasy and Mauritian bands, this gathering promises a return to raw and authentic roots. The founding myth of alternative rock can be summed up in three words: freedom, do-it-yourself, and anti-establishment. In Madagascar, an event dedicated to this spirit, "Reviv'Alt," will take place Sunday at Skate Park Antanimena starting at 10 a.m. "This is one of Rar Project's initiatives. We want to show that alternative rock exists in this country, that it's educational, that it's enjoyable, and so on," says Naday, a member of the organizing team. He is a pillar of Antananarivo's rock and metal scene and urban music. Since 2025, he has gathered passionate supporters, promoting this genre born in the 1970s and 80s through the capital's music venues. Malagasy rock has often had an alternative edge, dominated by self-production until the advent of "rock FM" and its power ballads, or rather variety music with industrial riffs and politically correct lyrics, featuring urban vernacular. "There will be five bands," adds Naday, including one from Mauritius, Silver Bullet X, a minimalist trio that perfectly embodies this anti-industrial music aesthetic. Recapturing the essence of their rock—the spirit of Nirvana, Sonic Youth, The Afghan Whigs, Built to Spill and others—is the goal. On stage, besides the Mauritians, there will be Grey, the band currently making waves, Ikala, Highomellow, and Rar Project Mdg. The morning will feature side activities with Manoara Tatou, a skateboarding community, and customized motorcycle demonstrations by Rom Custom. Then at 2 p.m., the music begins.
Source: Midi Madagasikara