Marcus Gad

Originally from Nouméa, New Caledonia, Marcus Gad has been developing a roots reggae marked by spirituality, references to Kanak culture and a central relationship with nature since the mid-2010s. On stage the project is carried by the band Tribe, formed around musicians who met between New Caledonia and Europe. The project first established itself through a series of EPs and performances on French and European reggae stages before the release of the album Purify in 2017, which defined an aesthetic of slow tempos, collective vocals and acoustic hues. In 2018, his collaboration with producer Tamal on the album Brave New World opened a more meditative dimension, where roots blends with dub-like constructions and downtempo music, continued later through further duo releases. The album Rhythm of Serenity (2020) confirmed a songwriting approach focused on lyrics in English and French, addressing ecology, spirituality, colonial legacies and social issues, with particular attention to ties between indigenous Pacific peoples and Rasta culture. Alternating between studio work and tours, Marcus Gad now moves between New Caledonia and Europe, is part of a network of reggae venues and festivals, and increasingly collaborates with musicians and producers from various Afro-Caribbean scenes and the bass-music world.