Yemen Blues

Conceived from vocalist Ravid Kahalani’s vision, Yemen Blues mixes music of Yemen and West Africa with contemporary grooves from funk to mambo and the deep soul of old chants. Conjuring up a rich and diverse aural palette with the use of percussion, oud, horns, and strings, Yemen Blues coexists in both the past and present, at once timeless and modern. The collective is a true collaboration of top master musicians, its core including Ravid Kahalani, Omer Avital, Itamar Doari, Rony Iwryn, and Itamar Borochov.

Yemen Blues’ myriad influences carry over on stage, where the ensemble navigates from the boisterous to the romantic, from joyous celebration to anguished balladry. Horns fire off emphatically, percussion adds deep rhythmic textures, and the enchanting oud strums out subtle melodies. Frankly, Yemen Blues is one of the most gripping and fun live bands in contemporary music today.

Yemen Blues toured extensively 2011, performing for enraptured audiences across the globe. Top musicians from around the world are taking notice as well. Ravid’s unmistakable voice will be featured on Matisyahu’s upcoming record, Spark Seeker, out July 17th on Fallen Sparks Records.

Releasing a new record in second quarter of 2013, Yemen Blues will continue to champion their unique blend of Yemeni, Jewish, and African traditions.