Hizbut Jámm (PL)
Band from Krakow, led by guitarist and composer Raphael Rogiński. The group also includes vocalist and guitarist Mamadou Ba, kora player Noums Dembele, and drummer Paweł Szpura, known from the band Lotto.
Hizbut Jámm presents a unique combination of African ethnic influences with elements of European psychedelia, jazz-rock, and improvisation. However, the band’s music is not a simple imitation of African rhythms but a contemporary interpretation in which echoes of West African melodies and scales can be heard. All compositions are by Rogiński, while the lyrics in Wolof and French were written by Mamadou Ba.
The band’s name means “Brotherhood for Peace” and reflects their intention to play in the name of harmonious coexistence. During the pandemic, instead of performing live, the band focused on recording their debut album, which was released on January 12, 2024, by the Krakow-based label Instant Classic.
“It’s all about the hope we want to achieve through trance. Hope and joy, reaching your inner temple. This is essentially a ritual band. Traveling with wonderful musicians is amazing, and that’s exactly what Hizbut Jámm is like. This safety is something special, stemming from our mission. We agreed on something serious, and at the same time, we love playing together,” summarizes the band’s leader.