Palestinian vocalist Ruba Shamshoum will celebrate the launch of her debut album ‘Shamat’ (Beauty Spots) with her full-band followed by after party with special guest DJ Sotusura (Hicham Ibrahim).

Ruba is influenced by a wide range of music, from her roots of Palestinian traditional music to rock, pop and jazz, which is abundantly heard in the songs through the unique vocal melodies, catchy hooks, tight grooves and powerful chord progressions. She sings in both Arabic and English, and uses music to deal with identity, anger, lack of communication, fear and love.

2016 was a great year for Ruba’s music; playing international festivals, giving a TED talk at TEDx London Business School, and recording her first album with acclaimed musicians. This gig at Whelan’s will be a celebration of the long journey that took to get here, and the longer journey ahead.

Line up :
Orlando Molina – Guitar
Aleka Potinga – Cello and backing vocals
Barry Rycraft – Double bass
Matthew Jacobson – Drums

Dj Sotusura: