Podcast Summary: All Of It – "Imal Gnawa Performs Live"
Release Date: August 8, 2025
Host: Alison Stewart
Podcast Title: All Of It
Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, exploring the multifaceted dimensions of cultural expression through conversations with thinkers, doers, makers, and creators.
Introduction to Imal Gnawa
In this episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart welcomes listeners to a vibrant showcase featuring Imal Gnawa, a pioneering local band led by Atlas Phoenix. Known for their innovative fusion, Imal Gnawa blends traditional Moroccan Gnawa music with cutting-edge technology and futurist ideas. The band recently released their debut EP in January, signaling a promising entry into the contemporary music scene.
Alison Stewart highlights the band's participation in the April Get Lit with All Of It Book Club event alongside author Leila Lalamy, who specifically requested a contemporary Moroccan artist for the evening. This collaboration underscores the podcast's commitment to bridging cultural narratives through diverse artistic expressions.
Live Performance: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
The episode features a live performance by Imal Gnawa, setting the stage for an immersive cultural experience. Atlas Phoenix introduces the concept behind their music, describing Gnawa as "ancient psychiatry" practiced before the advent of modern psychiatric methods. He elaborates:
"Gnawa is basically like ancient psychiatry. Before modern psychiatry, people would gather up and play these trance rhythms."
(00:42)
Imal Gnawa distinguishes itself by incorporating sci-fi elements into their performances, integrating synthesizers to create a unique soundscape. The band lineup includes:
- Andrew Fox on synthesizers
- Elon Elkaim on drum machine
- Mustafa on Karkava and vocals
- Atlas Phoenix on Gimbri (a traditional bass instrument)
Exploring Gnawa Music and Cultural Significance
During the performance of "Mimouna," Atlas Phoenix provides cultural context:
"Mimouna is a Jewish female Moroccan saint and a Jewish holiday."
(02:50)
He explains that Mimouna is a tradition celebrated by various communities in Morocco, including the Jewish population. This tradition exemplifies the rich cultural tapestry that Gnawa music weaves, blending spiritual and communal elements.
Understanding the Gimbri and Musical Heritage
In a subsequent interview segment, Atlas Phoenix delves into the significance of the Gimbri, referred to as the "great grandmother of bass." He clarifies:
"Gimbri... is where bass guitar evolved from. It migrated from Sub-Saharan Africa to Morocco and evolved in Morocco."
(08:21)
The Gimbri's role in Gnawa music is pivotal, providing the foundational rhythms that drive the trance-inducing melodies characteristic of the genre.
Symbolism of Colors in Gnawa Music
A fascinating aspect of Imal Gnawa's music is the use of colors to represent spirits. Atlas Phoenix explains:
"Gnawa music goes by spirits and colors. Each color has a collection of songs representing ancient spirits, like gods and goddesses. This tradition has been passed down orally for a thousand years."
(08:40)
Each color—such as blue, black, and green—encapsulates a suite of songs that honor various spirits. This symbolic framework adds a layer of depth and meaning to their performances, connecting listeners to the spiritual heritage of Gnawa.
Balancing Tradition with Technological Innovation
When discussing the integration of traditional elements with modern technology, Atlas Phoenix emphasizes harmony and evolution:
"I think everything is connected and it's just about what fits. We studied it, met, and then made this. We produced the first album solo with synthesizers, the second with vocalists, and the third with a visiting artist, Malem."
(10:02)
This approach reflects Imal Gnawa's commitment to preserving cultural authenticity while embracing innovation, allowing them to experiment and expand their musical horizons.
Future Endeavors and Artistic Vision
Looking ahead, Atlas Phoenix shares the band's aspirations:
"We just want to play music and enjoy music, experiment with it, and heal ourselves first. Anyone who resonates with this vibe can also benefit."
(10:53)
Imal Gnawa plans to continue their musical journey, focusing on creativity and personal growth, with an open invitation for listeners to join them in their cultural and artistic exploration.
Next Performance: "Gilali Boelam"
The episode concludes with a preview of their next performance piece, "Gilali Boelam." Atlas Phoenix provides insight into the song's inspiration:
"Gilali Boelam is about a bohemian spiritual marabout who migrated from modern-day Iraq to North Africa, establishing a Sufi sect. Moroccans, including Gnawa musicians, sing about him."
(11:13)
This piece further exemplifies the band's dedication to storytelling through music, drawing from historical and spiritual narratives to enrich their performances.
Conclusion
This episode of All Of It offers an in-depth look into Imal Gnawa, highlighting their fusion of traditional Gnawa music with modern technological elements. Through engaging performances and insightful discussions, Alison Stewart showcases the band's role in preserving and evolving cultural heritage, making it accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Gnawa music, this episode provides a rich and immersive experience into the vibrant world of Moroccan cultural expression.