Gwakasonné expresses Robert Oumaou’s artistic and political vision through a powerful mix of jazz, traditional Gwo Ka rhythms, Créole poetry, and ideas of Guadeloupian independence. Across three albums released in the 1980s — Gwakasonné, Temwen, and Moun. — Robert worked with a changing group of pioneering musicians to create a unique collective sound.
Recorded in 1983 and released in 1984, this debut album explores a modern approach to Gwo Ka music. Highlights include the political Algérie 62, the proto hip-hop energy of W3 (Woy Woy Woy), and the jazz fusion inspired tracks Pita and Siklon.
Today, Robert Oumaou’s music still feels fresh and visionary. Built around the ka drum and voice, it blends protest music, electronics, ambient textures, African diaspora influences, and spiritual jazz. His group’s free and collective style can sometimes recall artists like Miles Davis, Pharoah Sanders, or Grateful Dead, while remaining completely original.
Inspired by the ideas of Gérard Lockel, the group belonged to a wider movement of Guadeloupian musicians, including Serge Fabriano, Erick Cosaque, and Gaoulé Mizik, who combined traditional Gwo Ka music with modern jazz and experimental recording techniques.
This album is now pretty much invisIble to find on the market, this copy appaears unplayed.
Record is Near Mint / Sleeve is close to Mint.
