Omar Souleyman

Omar Souleyman has bolstered his growing status as a world and electronic music icon establishing an extensive international following after touring widely and performing at major festivals including Glastonbury, Bonnaroo, Pitchfork Paris and RoskildeThe Syrian singer and dabke techno king began his career as a wedding singer, but grew into a worldwide dance phenomenon through his distinctive and exhilarating mix of dabke and electronic music. His sound is characterized by Middle Eastern melodies, ululating keyboards, electronic beats, and raw, throaty vocals. ERBIl Omar Souleyman’s 5th studio album pays homage to Erbil — the city in Iraq that offered solace and embraced Souleyman during recent uneasy times. The move to Erbil came rich with new experiences and friendships best celebrated in joyous songs dedicated to a new chapter of life. Erbil’s 8 tracks see the Syrian wedding singer turned global electronic music icon again teaming up with his longtime keyboard player Hasan Jamo alo for an ever ambitious and forward thinking techno-meets-Dabke sound. The song “Damascus” (featuring Gorillaz) even earned a prestigious Ivor Novello Award nomination, a major honor in the UK.