Lagon Nwar

The music of Lagon Nwar, hailing from La Réunion, is nothing short of eclectic. The songs of this quartet are at the intersection of jazz, Afro-jazz, psychedelic rock, European pop, and the hypnotic rhythms of La Réunion, the island next to Madagascar. A groundbreaking sound that reflects not only their musical style, but also the interplay between the musicians and their diverse cultural backgrounds. Lagon Nwar effortlessly navigates between Africa and their home base in France, creating a rich, organic and at the same time modern sound through keyboards and electronics. The protest songs with sharp lyrics in Creole and French are anchored in the cheerful local music style maloya. Maloya is characterized by musical influences from Africa and surrounding areas in the Indian Ocean, such as Sri Lanka. But within that, the quartet experiments freely with groove and melodic structures that feel as adventurous as they are harmonious. Intense and poetic, combining both introspection and exuberant energy.

Photo credits: Aurore Fouchez

Part of the daytime program at LUX, Music & Films
Awichas || Lagon Nwar || Esdras Nogueira