A new virtual band inspired by Jersey folklore and performing in English and Jèrriais has launched its debut single J’sommes La Dgaîngue, alongside a 3D animated music video.
La Dgaîngue (The Gang – pronounced la jeng) features a fairy lead singer, mermaid drummer, ghostly bass player, will-o’-the-wisp DJ, and a rapping hound. The project was created by Dr Kit Ashton, musician, ethnomusicologist, and lead singer of the Jèrriais-singing pop-folk band Badlabecques.
Kit, who is from Jersey and holds a PhD in music, specialising in the ways music can help support endangered languages, especially Jèrriais, said: “It’s amazing how music and art can connect us with our heritage and cultural identity so playfully but so deeply. With this song we wanted to focus on the theme that everyone needs friendship and belonging. The band sings that they have been misunderstood, but they aren’t really scary, they just want to be friends and have fun. Jèrriais is also a cultural treasure that has historically been dismissed and oppressed, but now, as we revitalise our language and culture, it can be something to celebrate that unites us, linking past, present, and future.”
A full album of songs by La Dgaîngue – titled Bouogement [Movement] – will be released on Halloween. It’s mainly targeted at children, but in an engaging pop style that all ages can enjoy.
The 3D animation has been created by Jersey artist Peter Taylor-Gill, using special motion-capture software and working with real musicians and a dancer.
Ben Spink, Head of L’Office du Jèrriais, said: “Music is a fantastic way to promote language learning and by commissioning this project we hope to encourage young learners to engage with Jèrriais in a fun and creative way. We’re very grateful to Kit and all those who worked on this project and we can’t wait to share these brilliant songs with our learners.”
