Hassan El Hadi & Billy Boulet

Queen West's DROM Taberna is celebrated for fostering unpredictable, genre-defying musical collaborations, and this pairing of Moroccan multi-instrumentalist Hassan El Hadi and Québec wind specialist Billy Boulet delivers exactly that spirit of cross-cultural discovery.

Together, the duo builds a bridge between North African traditions and North American folk phrasing. El Hadi weaves Arab-Berber rhythms and delicate Andalusian melodies on oud and banjo, while Boulet counters with expressive woodwinds, percussion, and Celtic-inspired jazz phrasing.

The Performance & Sound

Expect a set that moves fluidly between intricate, modal improvisations and high-energy dance grooves. El Hadi’s virtuosic pluck work grounds the tunes in century-old Maghreb traditions, while Boulet's atmospheric wind arrangements pull the sound toward contemporary Montreal jazz and roots music.

Like most evenings at DROM, there is rarely a rigid barrier between the stage and the floor. The music builds in intensity through the night, inviting the room to lean in, clap along, and hit the dance area.

Venue Details & Tips

DROM Taberna (458 Queen Street West) serves a hearty menu of Eastern European comfort food alongside craft beers, schnapps, and wine. Seating is casual and unreserved, so arriving early for dinner is recommended if you want a table near the performance space. Take the 501 Queen streetcar directly to the door at Augusta Avenue.