OUM

(MA)

Oum, an emblematic figure in Morocco's music scene, has captivated European audiences with her innovative fusion of North African traditional music, soul, jazz and electronic elements. In 2024, celebrating a decade of international success, Oum releases a live album recorded in the heart of Marrakech. This new work, titled "Dakchi" – meaning "these things" – celebrates ten years of artistic evolution and collaboration with her dedicated band.

"Dakchi" revisits the highlights of her acclaimed albums "Soul of Morocco", "Zarabi" and "Daba", while introducing three new tracks. These thirteen compositions intricately blend melodies and polyrhythms, capturing the essence of Marrakech's rich musical heritage. Following the groundbreaking albums "Soul of Morocco" (2013) and "Zarabi" (2015), Oum's third release, "Daba", elevated her to new artistic heights. This project, conceived in Berlin with her band and under the artistic direction of Palestinian poet, singer and oud player Kamilya Jubran, is simultaneously atmospheric and danceable. Oum describes this duality as a dynamic state of urgency: the need to come together and savor moments of joy in a world where modern communication and transportation are reshaping our interactions.

"Daba" maintains predominantly acoustic orchestration but introduces electronic elements for the first time, reflecting contemporary themes such as environmental threats, migration and women's rights. It is also a call to fully embrace the present moment. Through her music, Oum asserts her identity as Moroccan, African and a global citizen, emphasizing that cultural differences are less significant than the universal bonds that unite us.