The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Another edition of the Cairo Jazz Festival is upon us, with some of the country’s best bands and musicians set to share the stages at Downtown Caro’s Greek Campus with some truly outstanding acts from across the Middle East and the world – everywhere from Lebanon and Iraq, to France, Venezuala and Japan.

Taking place between Thursday 15th and Sunday 18th of October, the line-up for the festival is a veritable smorgasbord of musical stylings, but a handful of names stand-out as the must-see acts.
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Rima Khcheich

When? 9PM, Thursday 15th October
Where? Main Stage

With her 2008 album, Falak, considered a modern classic by many, Lebanese singer, Rima Khcheich, is one of the unsung heroes of the music scene in the Middle East. Her ability to take on the more complex forms of Arabic music has helped introduce it to younger generations and bred one of the most unique and intricate Oriental-world fusion sounds you’re likely to hear.

Also playing on the same stage that day: Makiko Hirabayashi Trio (7PM), the Riff Band (10.30PM)

Norbert Schneider

When? 8PM, Thursday 15th October
Where? Vibe Jam Stage, the Library

With a bunch of awards to his name and a string of albums under his belt, Austrian musician, Norbert, Schneider, is the man most likely to leave you tapping and humming the night away, thanks to his light, catchy blues-inspired pop songs. Marked to play a second gig at Cairo Jazz Club as part of the festival’s Afterhours Program on Saturday 17th, Schneider’s music also takes influence from reggae, funk and r&b, making for an all-round merry sound.

Also playing on the same stage that day: N/A

L'Hijâz'Car

When? 7.30PM. Saturday 17th October
Where? Vibe Jam Stage, the Library

Best described as Mediterranean jazz with Easter touches, the music of L'Hijâz'Car is unlike anything you will hear at the festival. Served up with a hint of eccentricity, the French five-man band rides a quiet energy around the combination of bass clarinet, percussion and double bass which is the basis of their signature sound.  It’s fun, it’s cool it’s quirky.

Also playing on the same stage that day: Todd Marcus Quintet (4.30PM), Elisa Rodriqgues Quartet (6PM), Hawidro (9PM)

Naseer Shamma

When? 8.30M, Friday 16th October
Where? Main Stage

An obvious, but essential, pick for this year’s festival, legendary Iraqi oudist, Naseer Shamma, will be taking to the stage alongside a group of musicians whose live performances can, and have, included up to 23 members on stage, all at once – Blood, Sweat, Drums+ Bass. Shamma’s impeccable and precise oud skills should make for an interesting contrast to the Danish collective’s big brass band sound.

Also playing on the same stage that day: Stepan Markovic/Akram El Sharkawy (6.30PM), Bob Maghrib (10.30PM)

Souad Massi

When? 9PM, Sunday 18th October
Where? Vibe Jam Stage, the Library

Another obvious choice, maybe, but an unavoidable one nonetheless, Souad Massi is music royalty in the Middle East. Having already performed three times in Egypt this year – twice in Cairo and once in Sahel – Massi has the honour of closing the main schedule of the festival – a fittingly grand finale.

Also playing on the same stage that day: Eftekasat (7.30PM)

For more information on Cairo Jazz Festival, click here and stay tuned to the Cairo 360 events calendar.