The 4th in our Ascension Series of gigs features a duo from turntablist and vocalist extraordinaire Mariam Rezaei and Alya Al-Sultani. The duo’s work came to our attention during lockdown with there amazing “Sister” release on the Taku Roku label.
“Mariam and Alya come from different but overlapping disciplines. After growing up as a classically trained pianist, Mariam has built a reputation over time as a prolific turntablist, DJ and improvisor, never shying away from interdisciplinary and experimental projects. Alya meanwhile is a British-Iraqi soprano, but has spent the last few years integrating improvisational techniques, microtonal ideas and Eastern influences in her music. Together their dexterous lungs and nimble fingers birth forms that dance in and out of each other: shifting, soaring, dipping, diving, but never sitting still.” From Cafe Oto website.
Alongside this we have only the second ever in real life performance from This Friend Ship Is Sailing which features Maggie Nicols alongside Odie Ji Ghast on vocals, Sam Andreae on saxophone and electronics and David Birchall on guitar. The groups debut release on Beartown Records was described by Free Jazz blog as, “great… both sessions feel like long stories that follow a thread… One the best albums I’ve heard in a while”
The group first ever in real life performance at Cafe Oto in London was reviewed in the Wire by Jo Hutton,
“The effortless freedom of a child’s voice stops the band with an emphatic funky “huh”. This moment sums up the essence of Maggie Nicols magic: everyone is welcome. All her work is a gathering of disparate souls where everyone excellent is assumed.”
This performance gave us the model for running an afternoon gig which is inclusive and child friendly but still focused on experimental musical performance. As such we will have a sound drawing workshop running throughout the performances in the church with artists Naomi Kendrick for young and old to get involved with!
There is also a bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and healthy snacks for kids available. The venue is completely accessible and has a baby change and accessible toilets.
+offer+ if you buy a ticket and bring a friend with you who has never been to a Curious Ear show then they can pay half price entry on the door!
Curious Ear 