Tcheka has a special place in Cape Verdean music, closer to the committed lyrics of Mario Lucio than to the mornas of Cesaria Evora. He also plays a style native to his island of Santiago, batuque, a rhythm once reserved for women. His first album, Argui! in 2003, was a disappointment, with its heavy arrangements overshadowing the quality of the songs. Nu Monda in 2006 also failed to make a real breakthrough, but Lonji in 2007 was a different story. Produced by Brazilian Lenine, Lonji reveals a unique style and charisma, as well as an exceptional vocal range. Dor de Marin 2011 is an album committed to ecology, a cry of alarm in the face of the abuse inflicted on the sea and its coasts.
