The concert "Ny Railovy 70 2.0", scheduled for July 26, marks the return of this legendary formation, now led by a new generation determined to preserve its heritage. The heirs of Ny Railovy will present the anniversary concert "Ny Railovy 70 2.0". On July 26, the CCI Ivato amphitheater will host the grand return of Ny Railovy. Through the concert "Ny Railovy 70 2.0", the fourth generation will celebrate 70 years of this emblematic formation by revisiting its repertoire with a touch of modernity. For nearly three and a half hours, the audience will rediscover the songs that marked the group's history, in an entirely reimagined staging.
The new formation brings together Hery Randriamahatana, Voahangy Rajaofetra, Nary Andriamahatana, Rinah, Toaiky Andriamahatana, Anthony Andriamahatana, Francky Rakotoniaina and Odon Ratsinjomanana, with Dr Souleman as presenter. Two women now join the adventure: Rinah, known within the M. Razafy group, and Voahangy Rajaofetra, who has accompanied Ny Railovy since the 1990s. The majority of members belong to the founders' family, while Odon Ratsinjomanana joined the group on bass. "Most members are descendants of the family, but we also welcome artists who share the group's values," explains Hery Randriamahatana.
Ny Railovy's history dates back to 1948, when the group was created to promote its compositions on Malagasy radio. After recording its first pieces, it released its first record in 1956, then its first album in 1957, before continuing with performances, musicals and tours. The name Ny Railovy was finally chosen from several proposals, while the logo was designed by Biry. After a period of success, the group experienced an interruption before being relaunched in 1988 by Biry with the arrival of the second generation, notably composed of Hery and Nary Andriamahatana.
"Many wondered if Ny Railovy should continue to exist. People reminded us that this heritage should not disappear. We understood it was our responsibility to pass it on," confides Hery Randriamahatana.
The concert will pay tribute to founding members, particularly Jérôme Randria and Biry, by performing the songs that built the group's reputation, including compositions such as Raha Poety and Manga ny fitia. Voices will be distributed in keeping with tradition: Toaiky Andriamahatana, grandson of Pata, will strive to recreate his grandfather's famous high voice, while Hery, Nary and Toaiky will alternate different vocal parts, as Jérôme Randria and Biry once did. The six male and two female singers will thus preserve the richness of harmonies that has always been Ny Railovy's signature.
While remaining faithful to its identity, the group is also preparing for the future. Three new songs have already been performed, though the historical repertoire will occupy a central place. "This is not about copying. Each generation must bring its personality while preserving the vocal level, Malagasy bearing, diction and scenic quality that define Ny Railovy," emphasizes Hery Randriamahatana.
The show will feature no guest artists. Faithful to Ny Railovy tradition, it will blend music, literature, kabary and some choreography. The old painted sets will give way to modern scenography, with lighting effects, video projections and some technological touches inspired by the "2.0" concept, without compromising the group's spirit.