From humorous videos to their first album, Tefi and Bob Tobias are taking their partnership to new heights with 'Fibata', in collaboration with Orange Madagascar, set for release on September 18 on streaming platforms.
Initially, nothing suggested Tefi and Bob would create an album. Their journey began with a video concept designed to promote Tiakola's concert. "I had the idea to write a song that felt current, and I immediately thought of Bob. That's how the adventure started," Tefi explains.
After performing at the opening of Smatchin, the two artists realized their universe could expand further. "We thought we could give something good to people, so why not make an album," he says.
Titled 'Fibata', the project currently features seven tracks, with the possibility of adding more. The title references a Malagasy term for various portable objects, and also an old bus name. "The idea is like we're all getting on the same bus, together in the 'Fibata' and having fun," Tefi explains.
Musically, the album is built primarily on shatta while incorporating afrobeat sounds. The duo balances humor with more serious tracks, having started with comedic songs before exploring more subdued registers.
Creation is collaborative. "We create together, write together, think together. We always agree," Tefi emphasizes. Each brings characters to the other, strengthening their complementarity. Production involves beatmakers Jonas Androx, Chrinix, Kl Yoann, and Gasykay, plus a producer handling composition and sound design. Collaborations with other artists could appear on the album but remain a surprise for now.
"Public love drives our work. If people like it, we try to give our best," Tefi adds.