Orchestre National de Barbés returns to London on the 25th May 2011. Founded in 1995 by musicians from wide variety of backgrounds (Algeria, Morocco and various cities and suburbs in France), the Orchestre National de Barbès first made a name for themselves on stage where their contagious energy and large repertoire, with its savvy blend of colorful and melodious rhythms from the Magreb, caught the imagination of fans and music critics alike.
The twelve talented individuals who make up Orchestre National de Barbés are: Fatah Benlala (doing chaâbi and Kabyle vocals) Fathellah Ghoggal and his Knopfler-inspired guitar, Khlif Miziallaoua playing more in Clapton style, Ahmed Bensidhoum (the great rai percussionist), Michel Petry (drums) and Mustapha Mataoui (keyboards). These musicians were brought up on rai, rock and gnawa.
Indigo2
The O2
London SE10 ODX
Recordings available:
- In North America: Rendez-Vous Barbes, In Concert, Poulina, Alik
- In Europe: Rendez-Vouz Barbes, Alik, In Concert, Poulina
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central