Dhafer Youssef with Ballaké Sissoko & Eivind Aarset

Exploring his African roots from a fresh perspective, Dhafer Youssef breaks boundaries to tell new musical stories in Digital Africa – along with Ballaké Sissoko and Eivind Aarset.

Resisting defined categories, the Tunisian oud master, vocalist and composer Dhafer Youssef is at the vanguard of a movement that unites the modern and ancestral, the east and the west, freeing his instrument from traditional confines, bringing it into the realms of jazz. Joined on stage by Ballaké Sissoko, whose swirling, polyrhythmic kora playing reveals a similar vision and approach as Youssef; and Eivind Aarset, and Eivind Aarset, whose wide sonic palette stretches from Nordic styles to African rhythms – his layered, textured guitar style adds further depth to the trio’s sound.

Support comes from pianist and composer, and winner of multiple music industry awards, Zoe Rahman. Playing new music from her forthcoming 2023 album, she'll be joined by her trio, featuring Gene Calderazzo on drums and Alec Dankworth on double bass.

Tagged with: Contemporary music EFG London Jazz Festival

Start time: 7.30pm

Approximate running time: 130 mins plus 20 min interval.

Please note all timings are approximate and subject to change.

Produced by Serious, part of EFG London Jazz Festival,

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