Characteristics
Rasin bands combine the vodou ceremonial and folk music traditions with rock and roll. The Haïtian vodou musical tradition includes "cool" rada rhythms often associated with Africa and the "hot" petwo rhythms that speak of a New World, and rasin bands incorporate both styles in their music, although rarely in the same song. On top of the basic horn and drum rhythms, melodies are layered that include structure from rock and roll, punk music, and American pop music. Typical rasin instrumentation can include a variety of drums (including distinct rada and petwo styles), rara horns, electronic keyboards, electronic drums, electric guitars, an electric bass, and one or more vocalists.
Most rasin song lyrics are written in Kréyòl and often incorporate traditional vodou ceremonial lyrics or poetry. Song can speak to traditional vodou themes such as spying and betraying, feeling lost or estranged, the need for judgement and justice, or the urge to reconnect with an ancestral homeland. Some rasin songs are based on prayers directed to particular lwa, or Gods, while others may be ballads relating vodou mythology. Many songs contain multiple layers of meaning, and can be interepreted as social or political commentary. Songs often emphasize spiritual messages of tolerance, faith, justice, and universal love. The music is upbeat and rhythmic and, like vodou ceremonial music, intended for dancing.
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