Concert "Maalem Hassan Boussou & Raúl Rodríguez Ensemble"

Gnawa / Flamenco – Morocco / Andalusia

The concert from the Maalem Hassan Boussou and Raúl Rodríguez Ensemble, produced especially for La Mercè, is an intercultural gathering where the captivating rhythms of Qraqebs and Guembri blend harmoniously with the chords of Flamenco and Iberian percussion.

An exceptional show that combines the musical tradition of Gnawa music, of Berber origins, with flamenco, created this summer by the dozen or so musicians during a residency in Casablanca. The talent of Maalem Hassan Boussou, heir of a long tradition of Gnawa maestros, is enriched with Raúl Rodríguez, known for his work on the dialogue between musical cultures. In addition to the North African instruments, the concert will feature the flamenco tres, an instrument half-way between the Cuban tres and flamenco guitar, designed by Raúl and produced by a luthier following his instructions.

Performers from Casablanca include Hassan Boussou, on guembri (gnawa bass) and vocals; Ayoub el Mrabt, on qraqeb (gnawa metal castanets) and vocals; Driss Aidar, Bouchaib Hilaliqraqeb, Youssef Makrad, Mohamed Maslouh, Said Abou el Makarim on qraqeb and vocals.

The musicians from Barcelona are Raúl Rodríguez, flamenco tres and vocals; Mario Pousada, on fretless electric guitar and caglama, Guillem Aguilar on bass, David Domínguez, on percussion, Pablo Martín Jones on drums and Pere Martínez, providing cante and palmes.

Recommended for audiences of all ages.