Modeste

Modeste Hugues Randriamahitasoa, known as Modeste, is a Malagasy singer-songwriter and guitarist from Madagascar. His music is rooted in Betroka in the central southern region of the country and is described as a blend of traditional Malagasy sounds with softer South African dance rhythms. He works in world music and is associated with Tsapiky, ambient and experimental music.

Music and recordings

Modeste releases music under his own name and has issued two albums on Space Shop Records: his self-titled debut, Modeste, and Fomba / Living our Destiny. A third album, Handeha Hody / Going Home, is also listed in his discography. His performances centre on guitar and vocals, with a style noted for melodic playing and rhythmic interplay.

Live performance and collaborations

He performs regularly in concert and is known for a strong solo live presence, with his guitar work often creating the impression of more than one player on stage. He appears at venues and festivals in the UK and internationally, including the Barbican, the Royal Festival Hall, the Brighton Dome, the London Jazz Festival, the London African Festival, The Big Chill, Rise and WOMAD, as well as dates in Italy and Singapore. He also tours with Cesaria Evora and shares stages with Damon Albarn, Mory Kanté, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and Lokua Kanza.

Broadcasts and recognition

Modeste has featured on BBC radio programmes including Janice Long’s Radio 2 show, BBC World Service, Charlie Gillett’s BBC London show and BBC Radio 3, including a live broadcast from Union Chapel. He is described as an award-winning artist.