Remork & Karkaba: An Unforgettable Musical Experience in Rabat
On September 25, 2026, the illustrious Villa des Arts in Rabat will host an exhilarating concert featuring the remarkable fusion of Remork & Karkaba. This event promises to be a celebration of cultural convergence, where Belgian brass band melodies intertwine with the rich, ancestral rhythms of Moroccan Gnawa music. The concert is free to attend and is presented in collaboration with MetX, ensuring an evening filled with infectious energy, engaging rhythms, and collective dance.
A Unique Musical Collaboration
Remork & Karkaba represents the extraordinary meeting of diverse musical traditions. The ensemble consists of a Belgian brass section, known for its vibrant jazz-infused riffs, collaborating with talented Gnawa percussionists from Morocco. This unique partnership has evolved significantly over the past fifteen years, continuously integrating new musicians and exploring innovative sonic landscapes. The collaboration began with Remork, a renowned Brussels-based brass band, and Karkaba, a training program for Gnawa music led by esteemed musicians Driss Filali and Mohamed Saïd Akasri. Together, they have crafted a musical experience that transforms any venue into a lively dance floor.
The repertoire of Remork & Karkaba seamlessly blends traditional Moroccan songs with original compositions by Luc Mishalle, a key figure in the project. This Belgian musician and composer has successfully woven a distinct musical language that fuses brass band melodies with the infectious rhythms of Gnawa, raï, and chaâbi music. The result is a vibrant, street-style sound that invites audiences of all ages to join in a joyous communal dance.
Gnawa percussion instruments, including the qraqeb and various drums, lend a ritualistic and almost hypnotic quality to the performance, while the brass section injects an exuberant energy that captivates attendees. Beyond the music, Remork & Karkaba aims to contribute to societal development. The Karkaba program not only helps young Moroccan musicians professionalize their craft but also provides them with opportunities to perform on international stages. The Gnawa musicians involved are compensated for their performances, acknowledging their expertise and encouraging them to invest in their art form.
As reported by leseco.ma.
