Today's Edition
RAIED SHUQUM (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi's vibrant cultural landscape is about to get a significant boost with the arrival of the debut of the Tamaas Festival at the NYU Abu Dhabi Arts Centre on February 13. The one-day event promises to be a captivating celebration of music and culture, bringing together a diverse array of artists from across the globe.
The festival, a first of its kind in the city, is generating considerable buzz, promises a unique experience that blends traditional and contemporary musical styles.
The Tamaas Festival is a carefully curated experience designed to showcase the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people. The festival's name, "Tamaas", itself evokes a sense of connection and shared experience, hinting at the immersive journey awaiting attendees.
The festival's mission is to create a platform for artists to share their unique musical perspectives, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation. This emphasis on cultural exchange is a key element of the festival's identity, setting it apart from more conventional music gatherings.
The Tamaas Festival features a diverse lineup of artists who will be performing on two stages. Here's the lineup:
Cimafunk (The East Plaza, 7pm-8:30pm)
Cimafunk, whose real name is Erik Iglesias Rodríguez, is a Cuban singer and bandleader known for his electrifying blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms and funk. He burst onto the scene with his debut album "Terapia" and has quickly become a global sensation.
His music is a vibrant mix of traditional Cuban music, particularly son and rumba, infused with the funk and soul influences he absorbed growing up. Think James Brown meets Cuban percussion. Cimafunk's performances are high-energy affairs, with dynamic stage presence and infectious grooves that are guaranteed to get the audience dancing.
He's a showman, connecting with the crowd and creating an immersive experience. His music celebrates the rich musical heritage of Cuba while also pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories. He's often praised for his innovative approach and his ability to bridge cultural divides through his music.
KOKOKO! (The East Plaza, 8:45pm-10pm)
KOKOKO! is a unique electronic music group hailing from Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are known for their raw, experimental, and often improvised sound, which blends traditional Congolese rhythms with electronic music and found sounds.
Their instruments are often made from recycled materials, reflecting the resourcefulness and creativity of their environment. KOKOKO!'s music is a reflection of the vibrant and chaotic energy of Kinshasa.
It's a sound that is both raw and sophisticated, blending traditional instruments with electronic beats and found sounds. Their performances are often described as intense and captivating, with a raw energy that is both infectious and thought-provoking. They tell stories and share their experiences through sound.
Abosahar (The Black Box, 10pm-11pm)
Abosahar is an Egyptian artist making waves in the electro shaabi scene. Electro shaabi is a genre that blends traditional Egyptian shaabi music with electronic dance music. Abosahar's music is characterised by its pulsating beats, driving rhythms, and hypnotic melodies.
He takes the raw energy of shaabi music and amplifies it with electronic production, creating a sound that is both familiar and futuristic. His music is often played in the streets and clubs of Cairo, reflecting the energy and vibrancy of the city.
Abosahar's performances are high-energy affairs, with intense rhythms and captivating stage presence. He creates an atmosphere that invites the audience to immerse themselves in the sounds of Cairo.
Aïta Mon Amour (The Black Box, 11:15pm-midnight)
Aïta Mon Amour is a project that reimagines Morocco's rich aïta poetry through a digital lens. Aïta is a traditional form of Moroccan folk music, often performed by women. Aïta Mon Amour takes this traditional music and blends it with electronic music, creating a contemporary and innovative sound.
The result is a sound that is both ancient and modern, paying homage to the rich cultural heritage of Morocco while also pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories. Its performances are both mesmerising and thought-provoking, inviting the audience to reflect on the power of tradition and the potential for innovation.
Attendees can expect a sonic tapestry woven from threads of world music, electronic soundscapes, traditional melodies, and experimental compositions. The festival's programme has been crafted to ensure a dynamic flow, with performances designed to complement and contrast each other, creating a rich and varied listening experience.
Beyond the music itself, the Tamaas Festival aims to create a holistic cultural experience. Organisers are keen to foster a sense of community and interaction among attendees, encouraging them to engage with the music and with each other.
The festival grounds will feature dedicated spaces for socialising and networking, providing opportunities for attendees to connect with fellow music lovers and artists alike. Food stalls offering a variety of culinary delights will also be present, adding to the festive atmosphere.
