Saha Gnawa - Saha Gnawa | World, Jazz, Gnawa Vinyl | Picture Sleeve | Pique-Nique Recordings
Cat No: PN009
Genre: World / Jazz / Gnawa
Disc Colour: Black
Format: 12" Vinyl LP with Picture Sleeve
Description:
Experience the captivating sounds of Saha Gnawa's self-titled debut album, a seamless fusion of Moroccan Gnawa traditions with the vibrant energy of New York City jazz and groove. Released on Pique-Nique Recordings, this record channels North African futurism through innovative cross-cultural improvisation, blending centuries-old ritual practices with psychedelic, space-inspired explorations.
Led by Maalem Hassan Ben Jaafar, a master of the Gnawa guembri and a torchbearer of Fes’s rich musical heritage, alongside drummer Daniel Freedman, Saha Gnawa transforms the trance-like essence of traditional lila ceremonies into a dynamic, global improvisational sound. Recorded over months of late-night sessions in Bed-Stuy’s LunAtico, the album weaves ancestral spirits into layered rhythms and modern textures, creating a transcendent listening experience.
Tracks like "Soudani Manayou" open with swirling guembri and qraqebs, with Nels Cline’s guitar streaking across the mix like lightning. "Bacha Hamou" radiates fiery intensity, while "Negshah" ventures into cosmic overdrive with Donny McCaslin’s saxophone spiraling through the atmosphere. The album is a vibrant dialogue between tradition and contemporary circuitry, moving forward with purpose and innovation.
Key Features:
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Artist: Saha Gnawa
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Album Title: Saha Gnawa
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Label: Pique-Nique Recordings
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Catalogue Number: PN009
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Genre: World, Jazz, Gnawa
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Vinyl Colour: Black
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Format: 12 Inch Vinyl LP with Picture Sleeve
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Support: Nels Cline, Gilad Hekselman, Donny McCaslin, Abraham Rodriguez Jr., Gilmar Gomes
Tracklist:
- A1 - Soudani Manayou (feat. Nels Cline)
- A2 - Baba Mimoun
- A3 - Bacha Hamou (feat. Nels Cline)
- A4 - Aicha (feat. Gilad Hekselman)
- B1 - Hamdouchia
- B2 - Tbal (feat. Abraham Rodriguez Jr. & Gilmar Gomes)
- B3 - Sandiya
- B4 - Negshah (feat. Donny McCaslin)
Why buy this record?
Saha Gnawa’s debut album offers an immersive journey into the spiritual and improvisational world of Moroccan Gnawa music, elevated by jazz influences and spacey textures. Its striking picture sleeve and deep cultural roots make it a standout addition for world music aficionados, jazz collectors, and those seeking innovative fusion sounds. Perfect for listening, DJ sets, or enriching your vinyl collection with a truly unique musical experience.
Add Saha Gnawa to your collection today and explore the vibrant intersection of North African tradition and modern jazz. A must-have for world music lovers and audiophiles alike!