Yemen Blues November 18, 2012

With its explosive, 21st century brew of Yemenite-Jewish song and poetry, West African grooves and American jazz, blues and funk, Yemen Blues is the most exciting new world music act out of Israel. The nine-piece ensemble creates a breathtaking musical experience, brimming with innovation, celebration and virtuosity. At once they evoke New Orleans second-line bands, the mesmerizing and earthy sounds of West African stringed guimbri, and rocking Middle Eastern rhythms, all coursing together in a raucous party.

This event is co-sponsored by the Israel Center, the Israeli Consulate, and Koret Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood.

National Geographic described Yemen Blues as an ensemble combining traditional Yemenite melodies and instruments - including all sorts of percussion - with jazz, blues, and funk to come up with a sound that's like nothing we've ever heard before. If Blind Willie Johnson hung out with North African trance musicians or if Stevie Wonder studied Yemenite chants, it would sound like Yemen Blues. Witness the energy and experience the fireworks produced by some of the most talented musicians from Tel Aviv and New York. It's an oasis in the desert - a breathtaking musical journey.

Yemen Blues' myriad influences carry over on stage, where the ensemble navigates from the boisterous to the romantic, from joyous celebration to anguished balladry. Horns fire off emphatically, percussion adds deep rhythmic textures, and the enchanting oud strums out subtle melodies. Frankly, Yemen Blues is one of the most gripping and fun live bands in contemporary music today.

Official Website: http://www.marinjcc.org/yemen