Moroccan guembri-player Simo Lagnawi represents Gnawa culture in the UK, with a show brimming with energy, movement and powerful vocals.
SIMO LAGNAWI
Gnawa master Simo Lagnawi is an ambassador of Moroccan culture in London.
With 8 albums under his belt including 4 solo records, 3 albums with fusion project Electric Jalaba and a further disc with his Gnawa Blues all stars, Simo has released through Strut and Waulk Records, his first solo album 'Gnawa London ' featuring in Songlines magazine as one of their 'Top of the World' albums. He has also been nominated as Best Newcomer and Best Artist in their annual awards.
Simo has performed on media outlets such as BBC World service, CNN World, BBC 3, BBC 6 and Vox Africa, and performed at a host of festivals including Glastonbury, Secret Garden Party, Latitude and Boom Town.
The Moroccan musician was raised in the Gnawa tradition and always remains true to his musical heritage. Each performance is a wholehearted expression of devotion from the UK's leading Guembri player - a North-African bass instrument constructed from wood and cowhide, with gut strings.
Whether through crossover groups such as Electric Jalaba and the Gnawa Blues All-Stars, or through hosting traditional ceremonial evenings - known as Lilas - the intention is always to bring the same healing energy through to the fore in each new creation, and spread the Gnawa tradition through the UK in the process.
LÈA
Singer-songwriter and guitarist Lèa Mondo was born in the Kongo, grew up in Greater Manchester, and now resides in North London. She jams and gig all over London. Her music largely talks about peace and freedom and draws from highlife, soul, and other African diaspora styles. Some of her influences include Bob Marley, Franco Luambo, Oumour Sangare, and Fatoumata Diawara. Most recently, she performed a live session at Belmont Villa with her band Bubu Otis (percussions), Luke Wynter (bass), Grace Samba (backup vocals), and Moussa Dembele (kora).
About This Event
Since our first season in 2013, our event at Dalston Eastern Curve Garden has always inspired audiences in a unique and thrilling way. This season of events captures the essence of a weekend rural festival in the centre of Dalston on a Tuesday evening.
The phenomenal surrounds of the garden combine with delicious pizzas from David Latto, and a supreme and ever-evolving roster of acts, to create a magical atmosphere which brings people together in a friendly and welcoming space.
It's a community of music-lovers joined to celebrate the warm months in a carefree and supportive atmosphere, with a compelling live soundtrack.
