WOMAD

University of gnawa featuring Aziz Sahmaoui

From France, Morocco

Intoxicating sounds from the former Orchestre National de Barbes man

If only all places of learning were as so darned groovy as the University of Gnawa. OK, it's not really an educational establishment, but actually the new band of Aziz Sahmaoui, the original singer with evergreen WOMAD favourites Orchestre National de Barbes and former associate of arch jazz fusionist Joe Zawinul. As you'd expect from an ONB alumni, it's a project that bursting at the seams with complex, overlapping rhythms, elasticated oud playing and spirited ensemble chanting - the irresistible sound of Moroccan chaabi in Parisian exile. But it's more than that; this new band isn't simply ONB 2.0. Aziz has also ventured south from Morocco, taking his music onto a new plateau by absorbing the sounds of Senegal into the mix. The results are vivid and intoxicating as Aziz and counterparts reveal the common ground between sub-Saharan Africa and the music of his native Maghreb. Sign up for classes right now.

(Biography written by Nige Tassell 2011
Pic: Nazim Ouahioune)

Aziz Sahmaoui & University Of Gnawa-Live At The New Morning

University of gnawa featuring Aziz Sahmaoui's » Myspace Page