Doomed Confessionary: Théo Burri (Kahfa)
Kahfa is a fuzz heavy rock duo from Delémont, Switzerland formed by Théo Burri (guitar, vocals) and Claudio Peragine (drums, synth). They just released their full-length debut album »Le poison et la reine« on July 26th, 2024 via Argonauta Records.
In the heart of the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss Jura, an atypical musical duo is born, bringing a breath of fresh air into the music scene. Kahfa was born in Delémont in the summer of 2020, with a clear vision: to explore new musical dimensions.
In autumn 2021, they begin making their presence felt with the release of their first EP, »Sauvage«. Their melodies, both haunting and authentic, reflect the raw reality of everyday life and the sincere emotions that accompany it. With an incendiary groove and fuzz tones, their heavy, captivating music resonates against a backdrop of French lyrics, transporting the audience into a frenzied state.
Like a bolt of lightning, their music strikes with raw intensity and electrifying energy. Inspired by icons ranging from Black Sabbath to Noir Désir, Kahfa transcends genres, creating a sound that breaks codes and defies convention.
Can you say a few words about your band?
Of course! We’re a duo from the Swiss Jura region. I (Théo) started this project with Claudio on drums in 2020, and we played our first gig in 2022. We’ve played over 30 concerts since then, and it’s been crazy. We’ve just released a 10-track album on Argonauta Records. We’re very proud of the result, having worked hard to produce something that reflects our personality.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
I think it’s about trust. When you embark on a new project that’s outside your usual style (punk rock in my case), you ask yourself a lot of questions. Will your audience follow you, do I still have the strength to embark on such an adventure, is the game worth the candle? The answer was given to us at our first meeting with the public: a resounding yes!
What can you be most proud of so far?
Breaking codes! Of course, maybe not totally, but succeeding in integrating the music that makes me tick in our sauce. I come from a hip-hop background and discovered punk in my late teens, while stoner came much later. I think it’s this background that makes Kahfa so strong. But really proud? Proud to share the stage with my buddy Claudio and get heads and bodies moving! Yes!
What was your biggest regret?
When we have to turn down gigs because we’re not available. It’s never easy. But we must always prioritize stability between our private world and our band. It’s hard to keep everyone happy, but we do the best we can (laughs).
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Hard to say, I don’t think I’m myself on stage…it’s the demons talking! Haha… Without being too complimentary, we recently played in Brügg, in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, and the audience went nuts! The dances were frenzied and the audience was singing…my new songs?! Hum… the slam also from this young wheelchair-bound girl during our concert also showed us everyone’s determination and that willpower will always win. I think we’ll remember this concert for a long, long time.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
Samavayo! Damn, on a Thursday night 5mn from my house at 8pm…I’d never listened before going to see them. What a slap in the face! It was madness, a sick show, riffs you didn’t know what to do with, and a drummer who kept the show going the whole time. Bravo, bravo and bravo!
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Precisely, the rotation! I’m always on the lookout for a new musical essence, and so is Claudio. We love discovering and discussing the bands we discover. I could mention the recent discovery of Witchorious from Paris, who are really great, as well as Oranssi Pazuzu, Tropical Santos, Messa & Black Pistol Fire.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Tune your guitar man!
What are your guilty pleasures?
Of course! But I assume!
Orelsan – La terre est ronde / jour meilleur
Mylène Farmer – Désenchantée
Johny Hallyday – L’envie
Can you say something more about current music scene in Delémont / Switzerland?
We come from the Swiss Jura. French-speaking part of Switzerland. It’s pretty rural haha. But yes, we’ve got a great rock scene, and the audiences are often quite eclectic. We have no problem mixing styles, often sharing the stage with rap bands for example. I’m happy to see these cultural exchanges, I think we’re lucky here to be able to mix things up.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
Everything is up to date on our Mx3 site (Swiss portal). We’re going to be playing a lot in France between now and the end of the year, and we’re looking at doing our first dates in Italy.
What are your plans for the future as a band?
We’re giving ourselves two months to promote our new album on Argonauta Records (Le poison & la reine). Then we’ll turn our attention to future albums. More big riffs, more rap vocals and big sounds! Everything for rock!!! and yes!
How can people best support your band?
Little hearts on Instagram and Spotify! Haha!
I’ve just sent an album to Spain, it’s these exchanges that I love. We love getting feedback on our music, it’s often gratifying. Listen to us, share us and enjoy your life!
Do you have any message for your listeners?
We do nothing like others, and everything for others! Turn up the sound, enjoy the moment, and screw the rest!
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well