Before entering the peculiar and striking aural universe behind ‘Ya Saki’, let us set the scene. It’s the 12th century CE, and you are sipping red wine under the sun in Al-Andalus, a once Arab-ruled region of Spain, today known as Andalusia. Music is playing: an evocative, sultry piece that feels electrifying, yet relaxing. That’s ‘Ya Saki’, performed and composed by world-music outfit Siwane. Featuring the charming vocals of songstress Mounia Siwane, the project also benefits from the compositional allure of guitarist Stani Jardel.
What’s special about the piece is its historical roots. You see, ‘Ya Saki’ takes a cue from a wealth of popular melodies that were common in Andalusia between the 8th and 15th centuries CE, melodies that we have almost lost nowadays. Siwane keeps them alive, offering an eclectic sonic journey that blends Arabic and Middle Eastern influences into a fresh, striking formula, one we won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Based out of Lyon, France, the group also includes Vincent Domergue on bass and Wendlavim Zabsonré on drums and percussion, with a guest appearance from percussionist Mohamed M’Sahel. What’s interesting about ‘Ya Saki’ is its jazz influences. Despite Mounia’s hypnotic Arabic vocals, the piece veers towards a contemporary jazz guitar solo, something that greatly enriches the project’s cultural relevance – simply, it transcends cultures and styles.
Recommended! Discover ‘Ya Saki’ on Spotify:
