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Drawing on the classical foundations of Persian, Arabic, and Baroque music, and with performances where intense rhythmic sequences transition into vibrant melodic expressions, Ensemble Chakâm builds something completely new and forward-looking, crafting an original musical universe that is both preserving centuries-old traditions and contemporary. This unique trio, founded in 2014 by Sogol Mirzaei, blends the evocative tones of the tar from Iran, the elegant melodies of Christine Zayed‘s qanun from Palestine, and the rich sounds of Marie-Suzanne de Loye‘s viola […]...
When an album like Port’Inglês arrives, it’s more than just new music—it invites a deeper exploration into its inspirations and meanings. Make no mistake; Carmen Souza‘s latest offering is as engaging and danceable as her music has always been, filled with appealing and sinuous melodies, and body-shaking Afro-Luso rhythms. But beneath that resonant, jazzy surface, the London-based Cape Verdean artist channels her rich heritage and first-hand life experiences into a compelling work. Released just a month ago, Port’Inglês is a […]...
Sometimes, the sheer force of a performance can hypnotise an audience. The onstage energy hits onlookers squarely in the chest, putting them in danger of being completely blown away. The ferocity of Defmaa Maadef’s live show surges with currents of defiance and vibrates wildly in its freedom. In WOMAD’s d&b Soundscape, facing sound issues that would leave most artists weeping or cursing, the Senegalese duo bring their full power, launching into quick-flow a cappella raps without missing a beat when […]...
We are grateful to WOMEX and its 7 Samurai for their impeccable line-up selection, giving us the chance to highlight a unique and powerful voice, that of Sara Curruchich. In just a few weeks, she will indeed showcase her blend of rock, folk, and traditional Mayan Kaqchikel music in Manchester at the Worldwide Music Expo, reflecting her deep-rooted bond with her heritage and her community’s enduring spirit of resistance. Sara Curruchich stands as the first Indigenous Guatemalan artist to perform […]...
As we continue our journey to Manchester, Musical Road to Womex takes an uptempo detour to the Caribbean, diving into the vibrant reggae rhythms that pulse through the islands. This time, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on one of the most influential voices in contemporary Jamaican music: Kabaka Pyramid. Kabaka is a pioneering artist, reshaping the sound of reggae by blending its rich heritage with fresh, innovative elements while staying true to its roots. After a standout performance with […]...
Mix: Mukambo’s Brazil Beyond Samba
Mashup of Brazilian Grooves Vol. 5
Mix: Un Weekend à Matongé
Hommage to Golden Age of Congolese music
LATEST POSTS
Interview: Seun Kuti – Finding Joy in the Revolution (September 2024)
Words by Lucas Keen
Musical Road to Womex 2024 – Cerys Hafana
Photo by Heledd Wyn
Musical Road to Womex 2024 – Buzz’ Ayaz
Cover Photo by Michalis Demetriades
Event Preview: Shambala Festival (Northamptonshire; Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th August 2024)
Words by Ursula Billington
