Watch Kamilya Jubran's Mesmerizing Live Performance at LGW? 2023

Cover Photo by Jelmer de Haas

Palestinian-born, Paris-based artist Kamilya Jubran, renowned for her pioneering role in the Arabic experimental music scene, brought her distinct blend of tradition and innovation to the 2023 edition of Utrecht’s Le Guess Who? festival. Her performance, curated by acclaimed Egyptian sound engineer Heba Kadry, was a standout moment - celebrated for its minimalist elegance and evocative soundscapes.

Jubran's set unfolded with an intimacy that made each note feel like a personal story, yet it also invited the audience into a collective experience. Her voice, nuanced with subtle shifts in tone, held the room in quiet reverence, affirming her place as one of the most respected figures in alternative Arabic music

Throughout the evening, Jubran drew from her deep-rooted musical heritage while continuously pushing the boundaries of the avant-garde. The opening piece, ‘To The Children’, set the tone, blending poetry and music in a way that transcended language barriers and resonated deeply with the audience. As the set progressed with pieces like ‘Miftah Al Ghorfa / The Room's Key’, her fluid movement between tradition and modernity became ever more striking.

A former member of the iconic East Jerusalem collective Sabreen, Jubran has spent decades exploring the intersections of Arabic folklore, jazz and contemporary music. Her performance at Le Guess Who? was a testament to this journey - an artist who has evolved while staying firmly connected to her roots. Her mix of sonic elements created a timeless soundscape, inviting reflection on the delicate balance between tradition and innovation.

Le Guess Who? 2023 was the perfect platform for an artist like Jubran, whose work consistently challenges conventions and redefines musical boundaries. Her performance was not only a festival highlight but a testament to her enduring influence on both experimental and broader Arabic music. With every note, Kamilya Jubran reminded us of music's transformative power - personal and political, traditional yet forward-thinking.

Watch the full set on Le Guess Who?’s YouTube channel.