Abdel Benaddi - A Dream In Essaouira (2024) [Hi-Res]

Worlds Within Worlds are proud to announce the release of Abdel Benaddi’s debut album, A Dream In Essaouira.

On, A Dream In Essaouira, Abdel presents a pure and authentic recording of Gnawa - which stands out against the more prevalent fusion-orientated acts in Europe. Growing up in the spiritual heartland of Gnawa music, Abdel Benaddi has been immersed in the rituals and ceremonies from a young age.

“For me, music transcends mere entertainment,” explains Abdel. “It is a spiritual practice deeply intertwined with everyday life. Gnawa music, in particular, serves as a conduit to connect with my ancestors, fostering a sense of community and spiritual unity. It embodies the essence of freedom and reminds me of the path towards living a fulfilling life in harmony with the universe.”

“My latest album strives to capture and preserve the essence of traditional Gnawa music from Essaouira in 2024. We were determined to offer an authentic rendition of our ancestral music while infusing it with the spirit of our generation.”

To record the album Abdel was joined in Essaouira by Moroccan-Australian producer Julian Belbachir and Dave Godriguez (Godtet). The duo worked closely with Abdel to capture the sound and energy of a traditional Gnawa ceremony. The result is powerfully hypnotic, with the lilting cadence of the chants cycling over the steady rhythm of the percussive Qraqebs, with Abdel’s guembri rumbling underneath.

The album delves deeply into the spiritual realm of Gnawa music, featuring songs that celebrate the divine and pay homage to saints and spiritual entities. The themes range from praising Allah and the Prophet to venerating the seven spirits and colors of Gnawa, each representing facets of nature and human existence. The music almost recounts tales of historical warriors and celebrates the enduring legacy of revered saints.

Abdel is one of the most important hereditary Gnawa musicians of his generation. As the Director of the Zaouia Sinda Bilal (Cerimonial House of Gnawa) in Essaouira, he is responsible for organising community gatherings and ritual ceremonies, and helping ensure the future of Gnawa.

“I hail from a lineage deeply rooted in Gnawa music,” says Abdel. “My family members are actively involved in its practice and propagation. My father is a respected figure within the community. He traversed the globe alongside renowned masters, spreading the Gnawa culture far beyond Morocco's borders. This heritage binds us together, instilling a sense of duty to uphold our ancestral traditions and ensure their continuity for future generations.”

A Dream In Essaouira is an important record, capturing the spirit of Gnawa as it stands in 2024, and no doubt positioning Abdel Benaddi as an important new voice in the world of Gnawa.

Abdel Benaddi’s new album A Dream In Essaouira is out 26 July 2024. The first single from the album, Bouhala, is out now.

Tracklist:
1.01 - Abdel Benaddi - Bouhala (4:43)
1.02 - Abdel Benaddi - Bouriama (7:56)
1.03 - Abdel Benaddi - Kingoubba (6:20)
1.04 - Abdel Benaddi - Laghmami (9:56)
1.05 - Abdel Benaddi - Lah Lah Moulana (5:37)
1.06 - Abdel Benaddi - Koumi (4:51)
1.07 - Abdel Benaddi - Mbirika (4:52)
1.08 - Abdel Benaddi - Hamdouchia (5:59)