Review: Saha Gnawa - Saha Gnawa (Pique-nique Recordings)

Moroccan Gnawa tradition meets NYC jazz and subtle electronica in a transcendent debut that explores spirituality through sound - where centuries-old rituals dissolve into hypnotic, dance-infused grooves.

Co-led by Maâlem Hassan Ben Jaafer (Innov Gnawa, son of the legendary Maâlem Abdullah Ben Jaafer of Fes) and drummer/composer Daniel Freedman (David Byrne, Angélique Kidjo), the group bridges ancestral rhythms and contemporary improvisation

The eight-track record builds on the legacy of Innov Gnawa’s GRAMMY-nominated collaboration with Bonobo ('Bambro Koyo Ganda'), expanding it into new dimensions through late-night Brooklyn sessions

Featuring an international ensemble including Jason Lindner, Guilherme Monteiro, Gilad Hekselman, Nels Cline, Donny McCaslin, and more, Saha Gnawa channels the healing spirit of Gnawa: it's Tuareg Tinariwen 'Sufi Blues' for the modern age .

This is magic - another one set to dominate dancefloors as a early warm-up to the return of WOMAD next year (Ed. don't forget Hectic's Radio WOMAD overnight mix - HERE).

BUY LINK / PRE-ORDER VINYL (ships 31.10.25): Saha Gnawa | Saha Gnawa

Artist: Saha Gnawa 

Title: Saha Gnawa 

Release date: 10th October, 2025
Label : Pique-nique Recordings
Catalog Number : TBC
Format:   Digital / Bandcamp