Shubbak Festival Presents: Bahiyya
As part of Shubbak Festival 2023, Marsm presents the UK debut of Bahiyya, a rapturous revival of revolutionary Egyptian musicians such as Sayyed Darwish, Sheikh Imam and Zakariyya Ahmad.
Bahiyya is far from a ‘cover band’, and that’s in part what has marked their success in Egypt and beyond. Reviving some of the greatest Arabic heritage and folk music, they take both a sarcastic and philosophical approach on their own arrangements and interpretations… all with a revolutionary enthusiasm.
Layered with rich musical arrangements, distinguishable by a strong contrast of oud, violin, electric guitar, bass guitar and percussion, Bahiyya takes the listener on a fantastical journey. Taking inspiration from the 1970s student movement as well as the diverse musical influences of the band, their performances are peppered with Jazz and Funk flavours and a captivating stage presence.
Since their foundation, Bahiyya has taken their sound throughout Egypt and the Arab World performing at Al-Fann Midan Festival (Art is a Square), launching the first two editions of 3alganoob (the first camping music festival in Egypt), opening the Dayra Plugged in Festival in South Sinai, headlining concerts in Lebanon and Jordan as well as regularly performing to throngs of crowds at the renowned Cairo Jazz Club.
Shubbak Festival is the UK’s leading festival of contemporary Arab arts and culture. Shubbak Festival is taking place across London, key UK locations, and online throughout 23rd June – 9th July 2023.
Cutting-edge artists feature alongside distinguished names in its ambitious programmes of premieres and new commissions. With a vibrant mix of visual arts, film, music, theatre, dance, literature and debates, Shubbak showcases the diversity and innovation of contemporary Arab cultures, and celebrates what makes it distinctive to itself.
