Boukman Eksperyans

• Genre: Caribbean

About

Boukman Eksperyans take their name from the voodoo priest who led Haitian slaves in their overthrow of French rule. Using the drums and rhythms of voodoo and rara (a carnival rhythm) as a foundation, they merge rock guitars and pop keyboards with their folkloric music. The band initially came to fame as a carnival band, and their support of Aristide put them in a dangerous position following Haiti's military coup. Firm believers in the voodoo religion and the democracy movement, they have remained in Haiti struggling for their people. Electrifying live performers, they've toured extensively throughout the world delivering their message of love, peace and pride. This popular use of folklore started a profound racines (roots) music movement in Haiti, as other groups followed Boukman Eksperyans in reaching back through the middle passage to their African motherland.

- Robert Leaver