Abdelkader Saadoun
Leading the funkiest Algerian Rai outfit in the UK is the highly talented composer, singer and multi-instumentalist Abdelkader Saadoun.
Rai originates from traditional Algerian music. Its main features are percussion, singing, and dance. Based on strong rhythms, it is a very modern, dynamic and danceable music, and is the 'pop' music of North Africa. It is also hugely popular and commercially successful in France, where Abdelkader lived and performed earlier in his career.
Abdelkader often performs as a solo artist featuring his singing, and playing of traditional guitars (Hajoudj & Mandol) and North African percussion instruments (Bendir, Derbouka, Karakeb and Djembe), but his band is quite rightly his pride and joy. It is comprised of 8 musicians and features the fabulous Belly Dancer Samsara. They have already played at many festivals, outdoor events, private events, theatres, clubs and art centres producing astonishing performances which have clients falling over themselves to rebook.