Youniss/Zoh Amba/Ruqqiyah - DJ set by Tan'd Blew

As an exploration of identity and self expression, Youniss moves his way through the awkward, intrusive feelings that accompany performing as a black man with an Arabic name through the gaze of the western world.

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Zoh Amba is a composer, saxophonist, and flutist from Tennessee. Her music blends avant-garde, noise, and devotional hymns. Before studying music at the San Francisco Conservatory Of Music, New England Conservatory and studying with David Murray in New York, she spent most of her time writing and practicing saxophone in the forest near her home. Today, her powerfully unique avant-garde music is full of folk melodies, mesmerizing refrains, and repeated incantations. Amba released two records in 2022, her debut record O, Sun which was produced by John Zorn and released on the prestigious label Tzadik. Zoh Amba’s second record, Bhakti features Micah Thomas, Tyshawn Sorey, and Matt Hollenberg. She has collaborated with a variety of high profile musicians such as Jim White (Dirty Three), legendary jazz bassist William Parker, Brian Chase (Yeah Yeah Yeahs), etc. Amba has also performed at well respected venues and festivals Roulette (NY), Ars Nova Presents (Philadelphia), Vision Festival (NY), and Angel City Jazz Festival (LA) along with a 2023 Big Ears Festival’s performance.

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By way of many places, D.C. based singer-songwriter, Ruqqiyah aims to explore the art of living and loving for love’s sake through song and storytelling. Ruqqiyah’s music is often described as moody and romantic. Although her influences stem from many places, soul, blues, and jazz are at the core of what she draws from.  She aims to deconstruct and remold these inspirations into something tangible yet boundless. Something that fits her skin. Ruqqiyah makes music for anyone who is willing to listen and she hopes that you will.