Labess

Labess is a group from Québec active since 2004. The name means “all right” in Arabic. The line-up centres on Algerian-origin singer-songwriter and guitarist Nedjim Bouizzoul, with Pierre Emmanuel Poizat on clarinet, Takfarinas Kichou Donkeys on percussion, and Beglerbegovic Georgi Stankov on bass.

Style and language

The group performs in both Arabic and French. Its music draws on Algerian and Arab-Berber traditions, as well as Black African influences, and also incorporates Spanish flamenco and Cuban guaracha. Its songs often reflect themes of tolerance and freedom.

Formation and early work

Bouizzoul arrives in Montreal in 2003 and initially plays in the subway, where he begins to attract attention from local musicians. Those meetings lead to the formation of a multi-member ensemble in the city.

Performances and festivals

Labess appears three times on the television programme Belle et Bum, with one performance recorded and broadcast on Espace Musique, Radio-Canada’s music service. The group also performs at Montreal Francofolies, Festival du Monde Arabe, Rhythms of the World in Saguenay, and the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. It also opens for Rachid Taha in Montreal and Ottawa.

Recognition

The group’s first album, Labess (“All is well”), is nominated at the Gala A.DI.SQ 2007 for World Music Album of the Year and also receives a Canadian Music Awards nomination.