Malikka Zarra at Alwan For The Arts

Malika Zarra is an inspiring new international voice, both influenced by jazz and bringing her own culture and creativity to the melting pot of the New York jazz scene.

Born in Morocco and raised in France, this gifted composer, producer and singer has invented a new Moroccan world-jazz by using traditional North African chaâbi, as well as Berber and Gnaouan polyrhythms to underpin her distinctly contemporary urban compositions, all the while maintaining a sophisticated improvisational modern jazz approach. Already considered a rising star in Africa, Zarra and her multi-national band recently appeared at Dakar’s prestigious International Black Arts Festival, where heads of state mingled with major African musicians like Youssou N’Dour and Angelique Kidjo. The New York-based artist's latest release Berber Taxi was an NPR World Jazz Pick and has garnered praise from musicians and critics alike. ...

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Malika Zarra is an inspiring new international voice, both influenced by jazz and bringing her own culture and creativity to the melting pot of the New York jazz scene.

Born in Morocco and raised in France, this gifted composer, producer and singer has invented a new Moroccan world-jazz by using traditional North African chaâbi, as well as Berber and Gnaouan polyrhythms to underpin her distinctly contemporary urban compositions, all the while maintaining a sophisticated improvisational modern jazz approach. Already considered a rising star in Africa, Zarra and her multi-national band recently appeared at Dakar’s prestigious International Black Arts Festival, where heads of state mingled with major African musicians like Youssou N’Dour and Angelique Kidjo. The New York-based artist's latest release Berber Taxi was an NPR World Jazz Pick and has garnered praise from musicians and critics alike.

Reviews

"Through the beauty of her voice and the magic of her compositions Malika Zarra reminds us of the musical diversity of our ancestral homeland, Africa. Close your eyes and listen."
- Randy Weston

"Soothing and sultry rhythms buoyed by modal, Eastern grooves”
Troy Collins – Cadence

“Malika Zarra is a rare and special voice, a natural-born musician who sings as easily as we breathe. Her newest CD Berber Taxi is a masterpiece, every track a gem.”
- John Zorn

“Strains of Morocco steeped in jazz-bred improvisations”
- Brooklyn Academy of Music

“Morocco’s gift to the international jazz scene”
The Jazz Standard

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Related Links

http://www.arabamericanstories.org/
http://www.malikazarra.com

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