Rock and Pop: Latest News > June 02 - Arab musicians out for 'A Night in Tahrir Square' at the Barbican
Published: 02 June 2011
by ROISIN GADELRAB
WHILE my Egyptian side is still wary of the Pandora’s box opened by the January 25 revolution, those brave enough to stand up to Mubarak and occupy Tahrir Square deserve noting for their courage. The Barbican has managed to round up some of the musicians and poets that kept the people’s spirits up during those tough days for A Night in Tahrir Square (July 22).
Singer-songwriter Ramy Essam, whose song Irhal (Leave) became the revolt’s anthem, camped out with his guitar as soon as the uprising started. Street music ensemble El Tanbura and founder Zakaria Ibrahim, were also Tahrir regulars.
Poet Ahmed Fouad Negm spent years in Egyptian prisons for his outspoken and comical poetry and lyrics. His ex-wife Azza Balba will perform his songs, while singer, gifted oud player and composer Mustafa Said completes the line-up. The oud is one of the most beautiful string instruments and to witness it in the hands of an expert is a privilege.
The night is part of Shubbak: A Window on Contemporary Arab Culture, (July 2-24), with more than 70 events across 30 venues.
Further info from www.london.gov.uk/shubbak
• Club de Fromage likes to confuse. They’re holding a Christmas party at 02 Academy Islington on June 25 with carol singing and the odd Christmas hit amongst the usual Fromage repertoire, Santa handing out pressies and mince pies.
• I’m ashamed to admit I still haven’t worked out how to add or delete songs off my iPod so I’m stuck with a number of albums I once managed to put on for review purposes and now never want to hear again. Main culprits are Razorlight and Athlete. However, if you do like Athlete, they’re doing a stripped-back set at Union Chapel on July 20.