Through the doholla and his own exploration of sound, Simon enters into this universe: listening to its codes, exploring its paths and searching for possible points of connection. Two musicians meet on stage, bringing their own histories, influences and intuitions. A composed foundation opens up a space for improvisation, where each listens, responds, challenges and surprises the other. The music takes shape in the moment, somewhere between what has been imagined beforehand and what suddenly emerges. Each Öz Session therefore becomes a creation in its own right, shaped by the guest’s personality and by the dialogue that unfolds. A genuine encounter never happens exactly the same way twice. The audience is invited into this intimacy: to witness an exchange between two musical worlds, discover traditions and musical languages that may be unfamiliar, and experience the moments when two sensibilities draw closer, confront one another and ultimately create a new shared space. The Turkish word öz, which can be translated as “essence,” reflects the intention behind these encounters. At the heart of the project is a desire to foster diversity, dialogue and intercultural exchange through improvisation, listening and shared musical exploration. FIRST GUEST : BAO SISSOKO The Mandinka griot Bao Sissoko, established in Belgium, is renowned for his refined and virtuoso playing of the kora. In his long career he has performed with well known artists such as Baaba Maal, Abou Thiam, Mamy Kanouté, Zap Mama, Vaya Con Dios, Damon Albarn. He notably collaborated with Malick Pathé Sow on the album Aduna, the album of which was qualified as the best African exile album of the year by The Guardian. He is part of the Tamala trio with Wouter Vandenabeele and Mola Sylla.
ÖZ SESSIONS: Simon Leleux & Bao Sissoko
Location: Rue de Monténégro, 44, 1060 Saint-Gilles
