Neta Elkayam and her fellow band members, second-generation Moroccan immigrants living in Israel, have emerged as prominent figures in the revitalized Jewish Moroccan music scene worldwide. Their upbringing steeped in Maghribi music has inspired them to merge their deep-rooted connection to traditional Moroccan music with a contemporary artistic vision that pushes the boundaries of musical expression. Through original compositions and lyrics that resonate with today’s audience, they are forging a path forward.

One of their standout performances is “Abiadi,” a remarkable concert dedicated to honoring Zohra Al Fassia, the legendary Moroccan-Jewish singer. Guided by Amit Hai Cohen’s musical direction and enriched by Neta Elkayam’s distinctive voice infused with North African influences, the band presents their unique interpretation of Zohra Al Fassia’s timeless classics. This marks the first instance where such a collection of Zohra Al Fassia’s songs has received a fresh musical interpretation, shedding light on her exceptional persona, the delicate yet powerful nuances in her vocals, and the pioneering enigma that defined her life.

 Neta Elkayam: Opening Night: The 27th Jewish Culture Festival, Krakow, Weronika Suchodolska for the New York Jewish Travel Guide

In his solo endeavor, Gili Yalo masterfully fuses the rich musical heritage of Ethiopia with genres like soul, funk, groove, and jazz. Collaborating with esteemed producers such as Beno Hendler of Balkan Beat Box and Uri Kinrot of Boom Pam, Gili seamlessly weaves traditional African melodies into the fabric of contemporary music, resulting in a truly exceptional sound.

Gili’s music is a poignant reflection of his family’s personal narrative. During Operation Moses, they undertook a grueling journey across the desert on foot, heading towards the Promised Land, all while singing traditional Ethiopian songs. Amidst the relentless fatigue and moments of despair, the music served as a source of inspiration, propelling Gili and his family forward. This theme of’ movement’ remains a constant motif in Yalo’s music, evident in the rhythmic beats, fluid melodies, lyrical themes, and overall style of his project.

These compositions, which symbolize Gili’s triumphant journey through challenging experiences, found a fitting setting in the cellar of Krakow’s Alchemia music club, where they were brought to life and shared with audiences.

 Gili Yalo, Opening Night: The 27th Jewish Culture Festival, Krakow, Weronika Suchodolska for the New York Jewish Travel Guide

 Neta Elkayam: Opening Night: The 27th Jewish Culture Festival, Krakow, Weronika Suchodolska for the New York Jewish Travel Guide

Junun: Shye Ben Tzur (IL) and The Rajasthan Express (IN) The Junun Project was conceived by Israeli musician Shye Ben Tzur in collaboration with guitarist Jonny Greenwood and the talented Indian ensemble known as the Rajasthan Express. This musical endeavor was brought to life and released by Nonesuch Records with the watchful guidance of renowned Radiohead producer Nigel Godrich. With these distinguished names behind it, one can only anticipate an extraordinary musical experience that is sure to meet, if not exceed, all expectations.

Junun’s repertoire consists of songs penned by Ben Tzur, blending devotional Qawwali music from the Sufi tradition with lyrics in both Hebrew and Urdu. As NME magazine aptly notes, it is “a beautiful record, both impeccably studied and totally opulent.” The title “Junun” itself holds a significant meaning, representing the fervor and intensity of love—the kind of passionate madness that has swept through the European music scene.

For the first time in Poland, Shye Ben Tzur and The Rajasthan Express graced the stage at the Tempel Synagogue in Krakow, marking a historic performance that brought their unique fusion of musical traditions to an eager audience.

 The guitarist Jonny Greenwood and the Indian ensemble Rajasthan Express at the Opening Party, The 27th Jewish Culture Festival, Krakow—Weronika Suchodolska for the New York Jewish Travel Guide

The guitarist Jonny Greenwood and the Indian ensemble Rajasthan Express at the Opening Party, The 27th Jewish Culture Festival, Krakow By Weronika Suchodolska for the New York Jewish Travel Guide