The words "Bwa Lélé" are taken from the French patois. They mean "wooden swizzle stick", that little barman's tool used to mix different beverages into one drink, new, different and altogether magical.

The spirit of Bwa Lélé is very much in keeping with the handy little implement it is named after: the band mixes various musical styles into one distinctive sound. The Bwa Lélé sound pays homage not only to the various stylistic backgrounds of its members, but also to their mutual desire to share with each other, both as musicians and friends. By combining different musical influences such as African, Indian and European, Bwa Lélé reflects the spirit of Trinidad & Tobago, one where different cultures harmonize, creating an identity that is truly Trinbagonian.

Each of the members of Bwa Lélé is a gifted musician in his own right. Frenchman Philippe Dupas is the group's guitarist, leader and resident composer. He is an eclectic player in the best sense of the word, with influences ranging from John McLaughlin in one moment, to blues explorations of Lightnin' Hopkins in the next.

Electric bassist Michael-Curtis Ruiz is arguably the leading electric bassist on the island, fast becoming a legend on both the local jazz and studio circuits.

Flautist David Bertrand hails from a younger crop of Trinidadian musicians, steeped in the jazz tradition, but seeking a truly idiomatic voice in fusion.

Dexter Raghunanan, the newest member of the group, is a renowned tabla player in Trinidadian classical Indian musical circles.

The group is an explorer of the brave new world where "one hears and feels musics meet and interweave… tasting the magic that results…"

Jul. 2000