Saturday morning, just got up. The skies are cloudy and it’s quiet outside. Tomorrow this city will be awash in car honks, fireworks and cheering as France face Italy in the World Cup Final. I’m feeling a little better today and there’s time for a little relaxing and a deep breath before the pint-infused, football madness of tomorrow.

When you want to relax, don’t you immediately think of Sudan? Ha.. Ok, maybe not. But today’s selection is appropriate for the mood and a nice way to ease into my day. After listening to the Taarab plus American Blues from Zanzibar yesterday I was in the mood for some more African meets Arabic.

We’ve heard a fair bit of Sudanese music on Benn loxo with posts on the lovely Rasha, Setona and of course Abdel Gadir Salim. Today we’ll hear another talented musician, Abdel Karim el Kabli.

Born in 1933, Abdel Karim el Kabli is one of the grandfathers of modern Sudanese music. His 1995 release, Limaza, brought his singing and oud (a type of lute) playing some international recognition. He also appears on the great Rough Guide to the Music of Sudan compilation. As far as I know he continues to live in Khartoum and still performs despite his advanced age.

el Kabli has been as much an academic influence in Sudan as an important musician. His lectures at local universities, published poems and music have helped to preserve and solidify Sudanese folklore and tradition. That said, he doesn’t shy away from the contemporary. His music contains hints of the modern, with elements borrowed from both the West and contemporary Arab-world pop.

Speaking of which, does anyone have a copy of his 1962 release, Sukkar Sukkar? It’s apparently his take on the Twist.

Have a good weekend.

Abdel Karim El Kabli - Kabbas