RUDDY BOA 5TET

Led by pianist Ruddy Boa, this project is an invitation to discover or rediscover Gwo-Ka, an emblematic rhythm of Guadeloupe, in a whole new light. Following on from 'Tribute to Lockel & Gwo-Ka Modèn Explorations' (with a fiery performance at Baiser Salé in 2025), this concert continues a musical adventure that began in 1969, when Gérard Lockel brought the Ka drum to the stage of the Cinéma-Théâtre Le Plaza. It was a revolution: Gwo-Ka left behind its traditional framework to become a boundless source of inspiration.

With "Echoes of the Plaza", Ruddy Boa and his guests push back the boundaries even further. Between original compositions and tributes to major figures such as Robert Oumaou (GwaKaSonné) or Kafé, this project blends Gwo-Ka with other musical worlds: the contemporary jazz of Kris Davis, Vijay Iyer or Danilo Pérez, and even influences from European music of the XXᵉ century, such as those of Arnold Schoenberg or Olivier Messiaen.

A rare moment to also (re)discover the Karuka, a unique instrument devised by Ruddy Boa as a tribute to Gérard Lockel's Gwadlouka. A vibrant experience, where tradition and modernity meet to create an unforgettable resonance.