Djmawi Africa are an Algerian band with a Gnawa fusion. The group based in Algiers celebrated its tenth anniversary on 31 December 2014.

Djmawi Africa offers a vibrant interbreeding of genres, fusing chaabi, rock, metal, reggae and gnawa music.

Their name itself carries the fusion they represent.

Djmawi was taken from the first part of the word ‘Djama3a’ (meaning group) and the second part of ‘Gnawi,’ since gnawa music was an influence and style that all the band members liked, despite coming from different backgrounds, like rock, classical, Andalusian, etc.

Africa was added because to highlight the African origins of Algerian music and those traditions that the band have. With their fusion sound, the band is driven by all forms of music and their creative curiosity.

Their music juggles around 12 instruments, some more rock (like guitar, bass and drums) and others more classic (like the clarinet, saxophone and trumpet).

They colour their melodies and rhythms with unusual instruments, like the kora, flute, Indian percussion, or traditional instruments like the Gumbri and the mandolin.

The themes they convey through their music have shifted over time in response to their surroundings.

With three albums in 12 years, Djmawi Africa take their time producing their music and give priority to live performance.

“We prefer to be on stage than in the studio. We believe that music should be live before being on albums, and will continue to proceed in this way,”

During 2016, they expect to perform more in the Middle East and infuse their sounds with influences from the region.

Take a look at their video DELLALI here