The aim of the Boli group and its singer Anouar Aït Baouna, is to renew the strong cultural and musical links that the Gnawas have with sub-Saharan Africa, and more particularly with the Peuls. By attempting to stitch together the cut caused by the various incidents of history, he aims to recall the common origin of the different African ethnic groups through a musical language that transcends dialects and languages.

“Boli” means “cracks” in Fulani, like those that appear on the ground due to the shrinkage of clay during periods of drought. This name highlights the schism between the Gnawas and the Fulani. Through its compositions, its arrangements of ancestral songs and its musical vocabulary, this group seeks to be part of our times, while paying tribute to this heritage. Improvisation plays a major role, and the different playing styles and traditions are blended with jazz harmonies and a more contemporary musical structure.

This cross-fertilization is reflected in the line-up, where traditional instruments such as the Peul flute, guembri and karkabous rub shoulders with electric guitar and its effects, drums…

The texts, too, call for the unity and renewal of African culture, drawing lessons from the wisdom, farsightedness, sobriety and resilience of the ancestors to meet the challenges facing the continent, namely the fight against desertification, climate change and mass immigration. The group is currently completing the recording of an album with Kitchen Studio and Yvan Bing, due for release in late 2022, which will enable as many people as possible to discover this music and this project.

On the pier.

In the event of rain, the concert will take place at 9pm under the men’s canopy.