Lockel & Gwo-Ka Modèn Explorations

Gwo Ka is a musical style originating from Guadeloupe. Primarily played with drums called 'ka,' singing and dancing are also integral parts of its identity.

Revisited in 1969 by musician Gérard Lockel, it evolved into Gwo Ka Modèn, incorporating brass instruments, guitar, and a specific scale that must be respected.

The project 'Lockel & Gwo-Ka Modèn Explorations' pays tribute to this history. It is a national symbol of music and a tool for decolonizing musical thought through modal and atonal music based on science, swing, and the musical sentiment of traditional gwo-ka.

Led by pianist Ruddy Boa, a student of Laurent Coq and artistic director of singer Körinn Pierre-Fanfan, the project explores a selection of compositions, texts, and speeches by Gérard Lockel on the seven rhythms of gwo-ka.

The pianist has rearranged and harmonized this musical material, modifying tempo, forms, and melodies without ever sacrificing the essence of the original work.

Surrounded by some of the best representatives of Caribbean music, including one of the masters of Gwo-ka, Sonny Troupé, griot singer Körinn Pierre-Fanfan, and percussionist Arlet Feuillard, this project is a vibrant tribute to Gérard Lockel, who passed away in September 2023.