Lula's Top WOMEX picks

3 International and 5 Canadian Womex showcases that I can wait to hear!

While the conference sessions at the annual world music expo WOMEX offer a great opportunity to connect with other presenters as well as artists and agents and to engage in heady conversations about the latest global trends in digital distribution, do-it-yourself marketing and social change through programming, the heart of WOMEX is really the showcases.

Here are some of the shows that I’m especially looking forward to enjoying in Santiago de Campostela.

Jupiter / Okwess (DR Congo)

The music of Kinshasa-born, Jupiter Bokondji is described by Womex taste makers as Afro-funk, hip-hopping grooves with high-speed guitar jams. Check out the documentary film Jupiter’s Dance by French filmmakers.

Delgres (Guadeloupe/France)

Singer and guitarist Pascal Danae’s blues trio takes its name from Louis Delgrès, the officer of African descent who died fighting against Napoleon’s reinstatement of slavery in Guadeloupe. Delgres promises compelling blues that traces the roots of the genre back to the Caribbean, by way of those musicians who fled repression on the islands.

Gisela João (Portugal)

Since the Lula venue is located an historically Portuguese neighbourhood, I can’t miss this opportunity to hear this much talked about fadista who, though celebrated for her classically sparse instrumentation and passion, has also collaborated with Porto-based hip hop artist Capicus.

Canada rocking it at WOMEX!

Canada’s coming on strong this year! In addition to the official section of Canadian celtic phenomenon, The East Pointers, four world music acts: H’Sao, Boogat, Tireux d'Roches and Quique Escamilla will be featured on a Friday night lineup, thanks to the vision and investment of CIMA and Mundial Montreal. The whole Santiago experience wraps up when Toronto's very own Kobo Town performs with Trinidadian legend Calyspo Rose at the closing ceremonies.