Saha Gnawa brings North African futurism to the U.S., uniting the founders of Innov Gnawa with leading figures from New York City’s jazz and contemporary music scenes to reimagine modern Gnawa music.
Often referred to as “Sufi Blues,” Gnawa is rooted in Morocco’s ancient history. Over centuries, infectious rhythms and polytheistic spiritual beliefs originating from West African slaves integrated with Islam and the indigenous culture of Morocco, giving birth to a hybrid spiritual sect and musical community. The lyrics of Gnawa songs are prayers invoking saints and spirits for freedom and liberation. Gnawa music is revered and treasured throughout Morocco for its soulfulness and healing power.
Refined via late-night sessions at LunÀtico in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, Saha Gnawa explores trance-like states through its intuitive interplay, allowing ancestral rhythms and melodies to drift into unknown territories. What emerges is both an authentic performance of centuries-old Gnawa tradition and a bold step into new dimensions of sound—where traditional song forms dissolve into ecstatic dance tracks laced with subtle electronics. Their self-titled debut album will be released by Pique-Nique this fall.
Photo: Justin Lane