This Friday will be a special day in Algeria as the band Democratoz will finally release their first album “Mazel”. The title track has been inspiring the Algerian youth, who will once again hit the streets to call for peaceful change, as they have been doing every Friday for more than a year now.

For the Algerian band Democratoz, getting audience members up and dancing isn’t the only goal. They want to give hope. After the lifting of the country’s 19-year long state of emergency in 2011, the band began to draw crowds with such rollicking multilingual anthems as “Ana Jazairi (I am Algerian).” If such songs’ mix of protest and affirmation recalls Bob Marley, it is not by coincidence. 

There is a definite reggae beat, repetitive refrains and strong vocals mixed with the mystique sound of North Africa. It's easy to listen to, difficult to put into a category. It has inspired a whole generation of Algerians, pushing boundaries, blending Algeria's rich music traditions with modern influences from around the world. 

However, music from home has also played a role in the Democratoz sound. Growing up in Oran, the capital of Rai, they all tried to sing like Cheb Hasni, Cheb Mami or Cheb Khaled.  "Rai music runs through our veins; the rhythm, the sound of the bass drums and the special way of singing that does not sound like anything else. The music that we have heard since we were young at weddings, in cafés and in the car is undoubtedly an integral part of our music today," Sadek says. 

Young people have definitely taken to the group, often identifying with their lyrics. On You-Tube you'll discover that there is a multitude of Democratoz cover versions over a wide range; a group of guitarists singing the song "Mazel" in a classroom, a young woman doing an acoustic version of "Jazairi."

Just by looking at its name, it’s clear Democratoz has political roots. The word itself hints to “a lack of democracy” which is especially prevalent in Algeria. However, Democratoz’ messages do not apply to Algeria only. During the US tour organized by Centerstage in 2016, the band spread the word against racism and islamophobia. 

Sadek writes all the band's lyrics and enjoys the live performance experience with the fans. Even though the band is able to reach masses, the ultimate goal goes beyond entertaining. “Our songs are dedicated to the Algerian people. This album is to honor their endless fight for independence and justice. We have to continue the peaceful battle and never stop dreaming. There is only one hero, the people