For several weeks now, Saint-Martin has been pulsing to the rhythm of Carnival, with pre-events and electrifying Déboulés. Just days before the official launch of the festivities, scheduled for this weekend, the Coconut Kronicles editorial team had the chance to attend the Déboulés orchestrated by Swali Ka, a cultural association dedicated to preserving and passing on an exceptional heritage: the Ka drum.
Ka and Mas, Two Distinct Percussion Styles
The Ka drum, also known as gwo ka, traces its roots back to the history of slavery. Brought by Africans deported to the Caribbean, it was recreated using local materials: a wooden resonance chamber, a goatskin, and a system of cords to adjust the tension. Its name carries a dual meaning: in Ancient Egypt, it symbolized the soul, while in Central Africa, "n'goka" refers to a similar drum, highlighting cultural transmission.
This instrument is primarily used for gwo ka, a musical expression deeply embedded in the history of Guadeloupe and the Antilles. However, the Ka drum is not used for Carnival. Contrary to what some might think, the rhythm of the Carnival Déboulés relies on a completely different type of percussion: the Mas drum.
The Mas drum, also of African origin, is specifically used to accompany Carnival Déboulés. This rhythm is carried by a percussive formation known in Guadeloupe as a "groupe à Pò", which structures the Déboulés’ energy through three types of percussion: basses, counter-basses, and chant drums.
Swali Ka: Preserving the Heritage
Swali Ka is much more than just a musical group; it is a cultural association committed to preserving and passing down Caribbean percussion traditions. Under the passionate leadership of its president, Joel, Swali Ka strives to introduce and teach the art of the Ka drum to new generations.
Among its many initiatives, the association runs educational programs in schools, delivering drums to allow children to start learning at an early age. Every Saturday, it also organizes Gwo Ka gatherings on the waterfront in Marigot, welcoming anyone who wishes to explore this musical tradition and experience the power of percussion. However, during the Carnival season, these gatherings may be temporarily suspended due to the festivities.
Membership in Swali Ka is simple and accessible with a single annual fee, which grants access to all the association’s activities. Among these, members can also join a specific section: Swali Mas.
Swali Mas: The Carnival Section of Swali Ka
Unlike Swali Ka, which focuses on the Ka drum and gwo ka, Swali Mas is a section exclusively dedicated to Carnival. Created in 2024, it follows the tradition of groupe à Pò by incorporating the Mas drum, which structures the rhythm of the Déboulés.
Every year, during Carnival, Swali Mas comes to life through its mesmerizing performances. Déboulés, unlike traditional parades, are fast-paced and intense marches, driven by three types of drums: basses, counter-basses, and chant drums, which bring depth and energy to these street performances.
With nearly 30 musicians involved, Swali Mas embodies the raw and authentic energy of Carnival. This section allows Swali Ka members to experience the rhythm and intensity of the Déboulés firsthand.
Immerse Yourself in the World of Swali Ka
Joining Swali Ka is more than just learning to play the drums; it means becoming part of a community that proudly upholds Caribbean heritage. Whether you are passionate about gwo ka or drawn to the carnival energy of the Déboulés, the association welcomes you.
With Swali Ka, the drum does more than resonate; it transmits history, identity and culture, bridging past and present at the heart of Saint-Martin. Let yourself be carried away by this unique energy and join a community where every drumbeat tells a story and every member plays a role in keeping it alive.