The Arab Blues

The Arab Blues draw from the rich history of Middle Eastern traditions and Chicago Blues. Tracing a line between tradition and innovation, their music is an eclectic, playful and virtuosic sound of the future.

Lebanese-Egyptian musician Rami Gabriel (oud, guitar) formed the band after a decade of experience as a jazz and blues musician in Chicago. Native Egyptian percussionist Karim Nagi (riqq, tublah, drums) completes the duo with his energetic and lyrical approach to rhythm.

With passionate musicality and a revolutionary attitude, The Arab Blues adapt forms, melodies, instruments, and rhythms into an original expression of Arabic artistry. This is the sound of the power and persistence of tradition.

"A miraculous sonic blaze" – Evanston Round Table