At the Trans Musicales in Rennes, Israeli artist Roni Kaspi despite everything tries to make music “simply”

The young Israeli drummer and singer begins her solo career after accompanying jazzman Avishai Cohen and has to deal with the situation in her country of origin.

At only 23 years old and with three songs already released, Roni Kaspi is a new star. The young Israeli drummer and singer performed at the Trans Musicales in Rennes on Friday December 8. She is just beginning her solo career but she is already recognized, particularly in the jazz world after having accompanied Avishai Cohen around the world.

In recent weeks, the artist has had to deal with the war between Israel and Hamas, between the need to pursue his career and the impossible forgetting of the reality of the world.

Roni Kaspi started from jazz, which she studied in the best schools, then she was spotted by a big name, Avishai Cohen, before going solo. Because writing music is a necessity for her : “When I write, everything just comes out. Nothing is ever calculated. When the music comes out of me, it’s pure. I just write what I feel. It’s my main outlet. It’s like that’s how I express myself best.”explains the musician.

She now plays in a trio, with two musicians. But, even with training to her name, she still has to deal with latent sexism : “Every time we get into a room with the guys, everyone only talks to them. It happened to me with Avishai Cohen too, regrets Roni Kaspi. People think I’m the assistant, but I’ve learned to deal with it and I don’t care anymore.” assures the artist.

The war between Israel and Hamas never far away

Behind his drums, Roni Kaspi expresses himself, diffuses his energy, recharges his batteries. But since October 7 and the Hamas attack in Israel, it has been impossible for the young Israeli to detach herself from what is happening in her country. Often on the road, she receives messages from her friends : “It’s both very challenging and rewarding because I feel lucky to be able to make music in a crazy time like this. It’s not easy trying to move on when things are going wrong. terrible continues on the ground”, she admits.

“As a musician, it’s my duty to keep doing what I’m doing and if it makes anyone feel a little better, that’s great. That’s why I do it.”

Roni Kaspi, Israeli drummer and singer

at franceinfo

It is also the role of Trans Musicales to offer a special moment, far from the disorders of the world which do not disappear. And Friday evening with Roni Kaspi, it was simply about music.