The Arab Blues

Hiroshi Ayama
A close-up of the band The Arab Blues.
The Arab Blues
(2024 Isthmus pick) The name of this duo is both direct and descriptive; the music is based in classical Arabian forms and explores intersections with the jazz and blues history of the duo’s Chicago base. Rami Gabriel plays electric guitar and oud; percussionist Karim Nagi employs traditional riqq and tublah drums and a special drum kit. The songs they create range from intense to meditative, and always find a strong groove (hear for yourself on the January release Layl).
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