17th edition of Jazzablanca: great performances for the kick-off

Friday, June 7, 2024 at 3:07 p.m.

By Hajar ERRAJI.
Casablanca – From Jazz-afrobeat to rock, including reggae pop, different musical genres were there on Thursday at Anfa Park, to raise the curtain on the 17th edition of Jazzablanca. On this occasion, young talents and emblematic figures of the place came to delight the public and initiate a rich and renewed program. Given by the captivating Kokoroko and the iconic UB40, the kick-off, displaying “Sold out”, was impressive and grandiose.

In a warmly airy setting, the sounds resonated in the open air in Scène21. Unprecedented, the Jazzablanca 2024 experience was initiated by the famous London jazz group Kokoroko, which immersed the public in an immersive musical journey.

Led by trumpeter Sheila Maurice-Grey, the eight musicians have fused London influences with their African origins, to create jazz infused with afrobeat and hip-hop, crafting an evocative sound that captivates the soul.

Submerged, Casablanca music lovers have let themselves be carried away by this soothing, relaxing and exotic style. For its part, the group was nourished by the energy of the audience, transmitting the joy and nostalgia of its brass section. In symbiosis, the interaction was at its peak.

A little later, in the Casa Anfa scene, the rhythms change without, however, impacting the intensity of the atmosphere. The iconic British group UB40, which was followed by the Scottish pop prodigy Paolo Nutini, for its part, thrilled the people of Casablanca.

Legend of reggae pop, the group extended the musical adventure with timeless hits such as “Kingston Town”, “I can’t help falling in love with you”, “I’ll be your baby tonight”, or even unmissable “Red red wine”.

With more than 100 million copies sold and more than 50 singles ranked at the top of the British charts, the members of UB40 have, moreover, seduced millions of people around the world. Their uninhibited reggae, 60s ska and Jamaican rocksteady have left their mark on music history for more than four decades.

In a statement to MAP, UB40 guitarist Robin Campbell expressed his joy at taking part in this Moroccan festival, emphasizing his enthusiasm to delight and interact with the Casablanca public.

This participation is part of the group’s tours around the world, he said, welcoming his first visit to the Kingdom which he is looking forward to discovering.

As usual, Jazzablanca highlights legendary groups whose musical genius transcends borders and inspires global admiration. But not only. Rare young talents are also there.

For new musical explorations, this edition has planned a stage graciously open to the public and dedicated to promoting the originality of emerging artists and musicians, particularly from Morocco.

Called “Nouveau Souffle”, the scene ignited under the sign of North African rock. The Leila opened the ball with a harmonious mix of different musical styles inspired by her native region, Oujda, which the singer and musician combines with grace and lightness with her rock and world music influences.

She was followed by the group formed by singer Anass Oublaïd and the rock group Raw Rhythm. Mastering the art of groove and improvisation, Anass Oublaïd & Raw Rhythm offered a blend of jazz, funk and soul, showcasing virtuoso instrumental performances and inspired compositions.

Established in partnership with Société Générale Maroc, the stage testifies to the common commitment to highlighting national talents who revisit, each in their own way, the rich Moroccan musical heritage through exceptional performances.

Launched in 2006, Jazzablanca illustrates the cosmopolitan soul of the metropolis, presenting the prowess and the big names of Pop, Soul, Rock, Funk, World Music and Jazz.

Beyond that, the idyllic setting of the Village and its numerous Chill Zones offer precious moments of conviviality and sharing which contribute to making Jazzablanca an exceptional festival experience and a timeless getaway, mixing music and flavors from around the world.