The public, loyal and enthusiastic, responded in large numbers, creating a festive and warm atmosphere. Jazzablanca confirms the success of a unifying pageant that creates feelings (organizers)”>Snitra opened the ball with an energetic performance, mixing jazz and contemporary influences, a subtlety which immediately captivated the audience.
Snitra, formed in 2015 and whose name means guitar or stringed instrument in Darija, is a Moroccan fusion band deeply rooted in the musical culture of the eastern region, where its eight members come from.
The soaring music of this oujdi big band, sometimes joyful and sometimes dark, is an ode to North African musical identity, where gnawa, reggada, gharnati and issawa merge with rock, reggae and jazz. Their performance captivated the audience with a vibrant energy and sonic diversity that transported the audience on a unique musical journey.
In a statement to MAP, El Bekkay Brahimi, member of the Snitra group, said he was happy to return to perform at Jazzablanca, a festival known and recognized worldwide, stressing that the festival also represents a great opportunity for the group to play their music. in front of the Casablanca public.
He explained that for this last evening, the group performed its first studio album released in 2023, “Essah Yenbet”, and also new pieces such as “el Mehraz” and “lkhir o Lbarod”.
To follow the evening in style, Snitra gives way to Saad Tiouly. The latter continued with authentic and moving compositions, highlighting his talent as a maâlem. The audience, young and old, was amazed by the magic of the music, applauding wildly and making this evening an unforgettable moment of sharing and celebration.
Saad Tiouly, artist and craftsman, is an accomplished maâlem whose hybrid instruments are his signature. He pushes the limits of fusion by mixing various universes to obtain a singular aesthetic.
sufi, Nubian, Arabic tarab, blues, jazz, reggae and funk music have already passed through the strings of his guembri. His performance illustrated this passion for the fusion of genres, offering authentic and moving compositions that highlighted his talent as a musician and storyteller.
The closing night of Jazzablanca was a real musical fireworks display at Anfa Park, the Icelandic group Kaleo offered an energetic and captivating performance, followed by the Italian icon Zucchero, whose timeless songs made the hearts of festival-goers vibrate
For its 17th edition, Jazzablanca was sold out, faithful to its reputation for offering an enchanting setting for both artists and festival-goers from all walks of life.This edition has once again demonstrated the festival’s ability to bring together diverse talents and create a unique atmosphere of celebration and musical revelation, confirming its place of choice in the panorama of international festivals.
Launched in 2006, Jazzablanca illustrates the cosmopolitan soul of the metropolis, presenting the prowess and the big names of Pop, Soul, Rock, Funk, World Music and Jazz.
– How dose performing at prestigious festivals like Jazzablanca impact the career of emerging moroccan artists?
Interview wiht El Bekkay Brahimi of Snitra: Celebrating Moroccan Fusion Music at Jazzablanca
By the Time.news Editor
Time.news Editor: thank you for joining us today, El Bekkay. Snitra has gained important attention for its unique fusion of music. Can you share with us what inspired the formation of the band back in 2015?
El Bekkay Brahimi: Thank you for having me. Snitra, which means ‘guitar’ or ‘stringed instrument’ in Darija, was formed out of a shared passion for the rich musical heritage of the eastern region of Morocco. Our vision was to create a space where traditional styles like gnawa, reggada, and gharnati could meld with contemporary genres like rock and jazz. We aimed to celebrate our cultural identity while also reaching out to modern audiences.
Time.news Editor: Your recent performance at Jazzablanca has been described as an energetic and captivating experience. What was the atmosphere like, and how did the audience respond to your music?
El Bekkay Brahimi: The atmosphere was absolutely electric! the audience was loyal and enthusiastic, which created a warm and festive ambiance. Our first studio album “Essah Yenbet,” which we released in 2023, along with new songs like “el Mehraz” and “lkhir o Lbarod,” resonated deeply with the crowd. it’s rewarding to see people of all ages captivated by our music, and their wild applause fueled our performance even further.
time.news Editor: Snitra’s sound is a blend of various influences. Can you elaborate on how this fusion reflects North African musical identity?
El Bekkay Brahimi: Our sound is a tribute to North African musical identity, where diverse styles converge. The intertwining of traditional folk music and modern genres creates a rich tapestry of sonic diversity. For us, its about more than just blending sounds; it’s about telling a story and evoking emotions that connect with both our roots and contemporary sensibilities.
Time.news Editor: Jazzablanca is recognized globally as a premier music festival. How important is this platform for artists like Snitra?
El Bekkay Brahimi: Jazzablanca represents a unique prospect for artists to showcase their work on an international stage. The festival is known for celebrating a wide range of genres, which attracts a diverse audience. Performing here allows us to share our music with a larger community and fosters greater cultural exchange. It’s a significant moment for us as artists and for Moroccan music as a whole.
Time.news Editor: Following your performance, saad Tiouly took the stage. What do you think about the importance of collaboration in the music industry?
el Bekkay Brahimi: Collaboration is vital in music. It allows for a blending of ideas, styles, and cultures, resulting in innovative compositions. Artists like Saad Tiouly, known for pushing the boundaries of fusion, inspire us. By sharing the stage with such talents, we enrich our own artistry and contribute to a collective musical dialog that resonates beyond just our individual projects.
Time.news Editor: Looking ahead, what advice would you give to emerging artists in the Moroccan music scene?
El Bekkay Brahimi: My advice would be to stay true to your roots while being open to experimentation. The world is full of diverse influences; embrace them and use them to express your identity. Also, take every opportunity to perform live, as it builds experience and helps you connect with your audience. Lastly, don’t hesitate to collaborate with others—you can create magic through shared creativity.
Time.news Editor: Thank you very much for sharing your insights with us, El Bekkay. Snitra’s journey is indeed inspiring, and we look forward to seeing how you continue to make waves in the music world!
El Bekkay Brahimi: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure. We hope to keep bringing our music to everyone and to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of global music.