Simo Lagnawi, Casbah Blues

Casbah Blues, led by Algerian singer and guitarist Nazim Ziryab, will hit you with the Arabic, African Blues and reggae Fusion sounds to get you dancing. The sound churned out by this six-piece band, is irresistibly danceable with an urban edge deeply steeped in North African traditional vibes. An excellent blend of traditional Berber music fused with Afro-Blues, reggae, Jazz and raw psychedelic sounds that will transport you from the East-end of London deep into the heart of the Sahara.

Morocco's Simo Lagnawi is of one of the leading Guembri players and Gnawa masters, and is here with his traditional Gnawa band to opening the evening. His released his debut solo album 'Gnawa London' in September 2013. The album showcases Simo's mixes of Morocco's sacred trance music with funk and jazz.