Yemen BluesYemen Blues

Ravid Kahalani is a reflection of today's Israeli scene. Just like Ester Rada and Gili Yalo, both children of the Ethiopian repatriation, the Yemen Blues singer combines family roots, and especially Yemeni culture, with rock, blues and even rap. Following Insaniya, the 2015 album, this set reveals the charismatic singer in a reduced formation. He is supported by New York bassist Shanir Blumenkranz who delivers significant personality. In turns syncopated and incantatory, the repertoire is reminiscent of the Berber rockers of Tinariwen. This is especially the case for an incredible sequence in which Ravid Kahalani passes seamlessly from the guembri, a gnawa lute, to the drums. The show marks a vibrant dedication to Yemen, a country on the Arabian Peninsula now in the throes of a terrible civil war. In an intimate and human setting (The Moods' stage is right up close to the audience), this Yemen Blues concert is full to the brim with authenticity. It is a feeling is especially evident during the encore, when the musicians revisit the beautiful "Ma'ahla Asalam." Curious viewers can look to Yemen Blues, the group's first record, for more catchy arrangements. Vincent Caffiaux.