Event Details

£15.00

General Admission Standing

Over 18 only Permitted

Experience an electrifying fusion of traditional Gnawa music with modern beats, and the exciting performance by support artist RamTajam.

Extract from the recent performance at the Glad Café’ in Glasgow June 24
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgJh9hXF9mU

Excerpt of a performance at Summerhall in 2023 part of the event: Mediterraneo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swKxvDUJGL0



Gnawa Trance Fusion

Expect an evening filled with deep resonant tones of the guembri (a three-stringed bass lute), a rhythmic beat of the Qraqeb (metal castanets) and the enchanting vocals that tell stories of history and spirituality.

This gig will not only be a musical performance but also a cultural journey, offering audience an opportunity to experience the rich heritage of Gnawa Music while enjoying the innovative twist that brings into the modern age. Whether you are a fan of World Music, Afrobeat , Raggae, AfroBlues, Dance Music or simply looking for a unique and captivating live music experience, the Gnawa Trance Fusion gig is not to be missed.

Gnawa Trance Fusion is composed of:

Omar Afif is a talented Gnawa musician from Essauira, Morocco, a city renowned for its rich musical heritage. Growing up immersed in the sounds and traditions of Gnawa Music, Omar developed a deep understanding of this spiritual and ritmically complex genre. In 2008 moved to London, where he began performing and collaborating with various artists expanding his musical orizons and integrating diverse influences into his work. In 2014 Omar formed Gnawa Trance Fusion. This innovative ensamble blends traditional Gnawa music with modern trance elements creating a dinamic and hypnotic fusion that resonates with a wide range of audiences. Through his band Omar collaborates with artists from different musical backgrounds, continuilly pushing the boundaries of Gnawa music and introducing it to new listeners around the world.

Ato George Williams is a a distinguished musician from Ghana, known for his dual talent as a lead singer and drum-kit player. His impressive career includes performing with the legendary Fela Kuti, contributing to his reputation as a versatile and skilled artist in the AfroBeat and Highlife Music scenes.

Andy Cooke, Ugandan-born based in Edinburgh on Xylophone, Ugandan Akogo and backing vocals. He is known for his rich cultural background and exceptional skills on these traditional African instruments, making him a unique and captivating performer

Steve Kettley - is a musician, composer who plays tenor and soprano sxophones and flute. He is well-known as a founder member of the international touring group Salsa Celtica, recently Orange Claw Hammer and since 2014 became part of Gnawa Trance Fusion. His dynamic and expressive plaing has added a rich, melodic layer and unique sound to Gnawa Trance Fusion (GTF).

Simona Simeone - from Naples, Italy is a backing vocalist who recently joined Gnawa Trance Fusion. She contibutes to the band's distinctive sound and adds a depth and a texture to the group's performances, inhancingn the hypnotic and spiritual qualities of the music.

Support Artist - RamTajam

Is the expression of a multi-coloured musical journey encompassing Folk, African, Celtic, Funk and AfroBeat influences all blended into the sound of an acoustic 6 string Banjo with some touches of harmonica that brings together sounds from across the world in an eclectic mix of music that transcends genres and borders.