An Explosive Brew Of Music Built From Yemenite-Jewish Poety & Song, West African Groves & American Jazz, Blues & Funk; YEMEN BLUES Performs At The Osher Marin JCC

San Rafael, CA (Top40 Charts/ Osher Marin Jewish Community Center) The cry of pain, the lamentation that rises from the depths of the bottomless human soul, is what created the blues. There are myriad ways of playing the blues reflected in the diversity of contemporary styles. Yemen Blues, borne aloft by the charismatic voice of Ravid Kahalani, seek their inspiration in the desperate energy of the blues, traditional Yemenite Jewish singing and, by mingling the earth of Africa with its music, return to the very source of the blues. In this way, they create a unique and dynamic sound, music that seems to reflect the suffering of oppressed peoples all over the world.

The Kanbar Center for the Performing Arts at the Osher Marin JCC is proud to present one of the most intriguing, unique and exciting World Music bands touring internationally. Yemen Blues.



Kahalani's powerful voice and persona catalyzes Yemen Blues concerts into ecstatic celebrations. Raw and rooty are two good words to describe this wide-wandering Yemen Blues. At once they evoke New Orleans second-line bands, the mesmerizing and earthy sounds of West African stringed guimbri, and rocking Middle Eastern rhythms, all coursing together in a raucous party of a stage show that often morph into dance fueled frenzies.



National Geographic described Yemen Blues as an ensemble combining traditional Yemenite melodies and instruments - including all sorts of percussion - with jazz, blues, and funk to come up with a sound that's like nothing we've ever heard before. If Blind Willie Johnson hung out with North African trance musicians or if Stevie Wonder studied Yemenite chants, it would sound like Yemen Blues. Witness the energy and experience the fireworks produced by some of the most talented musicians from Tel Aviv and New York. It's an oasis in the desert - a breathtaking musical journey.

Yemen Blues' myriad influences carry over on stage, where the ensemble navigates from the boisterous to the romantic, from joyous celebration to anguished balladry. Horns fire off emphatically, percussion adds deep rhythmic textures, and the enchanting oud strums out subtle melodies. Frankly, Yemen Blues is one of the most gripping and fun live bands in contemporary music today.

Yemen Blues toured extensively 2011, performing for enraptured audiences across the globe. Top musicians from around the world are taking notice as well. Ravid's unmistakable voice will be featured on Matisyahu's upcoming record, Spark Seeker, out July 17th on Fallen Sparks Records.

Releasing a new record in second quarter of 2013, Yemen Blues will continue to champion their unique blend of Yemeni, Jewish, and African traditions.

Co-sponsored by: the Israel Center, the Israeli Consulate, and Koret Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood & in Association with JIMENA (Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa)

About The Kanbar Center at the Osher Marin JCC
Epitomizing the essence of Marin, with a range of authentic cultural experiences enjoyed by many generations, the Osher Marin JCC offers award-winning facilities, including The Kanbar Center, which has established a strong and well respected reputation within the community as a Center for the Performing Arts in Marin County. Originally known as CenterStage, this performing arts department within the Osher Marin JCC has been presenting a stunning lineup of world-class performances from emerging and established performers annually since 1990. Venues include the grand Hoytt Theater, the intimate Kurland Lounge and outdoor venue, Swig Field. Performances offer concessions including cocktails for those 21+ We invite all to come early, get to know each other and celebrate with us.