“When you talk about a revolution, most people think violence without realizing that the real content of any kind of revolutionary thrust lies in the principles and the goals you’re striving for.” This excerpt from a 1972 interview with Angela Davis begins Rahill Jamalifard’s mix Songs of Dissidence, laying the foundation for an hour-long intercultural musical odyssey throughout the southern United States (as well as the Global South). Beginning with Dorothy Ashby’s “Soul Vibrations” before quickly segueing through international deep cuts such as “Funeral of a Worker” by Melia Barbosa and “Bravo” by Jacqueline Taïeb, Jamalifard (who performs under the name Radio Rahill) demonstrates a keen ear; not only for the ways in which she blends differing sonic textures into a cohesive project, but for her ability to curate songs of dissent from the world over. In doing so, Radio Rahill creates a portrait of resistance that spans continents and decades, painting a portrait of an enduring, continuing struggle for equality, justice, and respect. Listen below, and catch Radio Rahill spin at Soho Grand on August 7th. -Connor Beckett McInerney
