Skokiaan Brass Band, New Morning, Paris 2025
Skokiaan Brass Band Celebrates Album Release in Paris
Published: May 1, 2025
Despite limited portrayal in club and festival programming, france’s brass band scene boasts talented groups, including the Rhône-Alpes-based skokiaan Brass Band. The band recently marked a rare Parisian appearance at New Morning, celebrating the release of their album, “Skoki Mama.” The album was produced by Scott Billington, known for his work with the dirty Dozen Brass Band and the Soul Rebels.
A Rousing Performance at New Morning
A sizable crowd gathered to witness the complete orchestra, featuring Vincent Stéphan, Christophe Métra, and Félicien Bouchot on trumpets; Pierre Baldy-Moulinier and Jean Crozat on trombones; françois rigaldiès and Fred Gardette on saxophones; Christophe Garaboux on sousaphone; and Christophe Durand and Philippe Bostviron on percussion. The band, performing in the intimate setting of New Morning, was soon joined by their regular singer, Lisa Caldognetto, who also contributed percussion on the track “Mama,” following a brief performance of ”Sunrise.” The group’s stage presence and engaging choreographies quickly captivated the audience.
New Album Shines On Stage
The repertoire included their rendition of “Sexual Healing” and a nod to Louisiana with “Chickie Wow,” drawing heavily from the new album. The live performance validated the album’s quality.While notable guests from the album, including Louisiana musicians John boutté and Kevin Louis, where absent, singer Cynthia Abraham joined the band for several songs, including a rendition of “Dust.”
Influences from New Orleans and Africa
Like many French orchestras, the Skokiaan Brass Band honed their skills in New Orleans and acknowledges the influence of local groups. Kirk Joseph led the production of their previous album.Though, experiences in Benin and Togo have enriched the band’s sound, exemplified by the song “Méno essome.”
A Promising Future
Even though this reporter could only stay for the first set, the performance confirmed the positive impression left by the album. The Skokiaan Brass Band possesses the sound, repertoire, and stage presence to expand their reach beyond their established fanbase.
Photos © Franck Benedetto