WAAJU IN DAIOS COVE IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS, CRETE

London-based Waaju – meaning ‘to urge, inspire or influence to take action’ in Bambara – blend Latin polyrhythms, psychedelic Malian blues and dancefloor-oriented UK jazz arrangements showcasing their rich cultural mélange. Comprised of members from the bands of Mulatu Astatke, Jordan Rakei, Alfa Mist, Ashley Henry, Chelsea Carmichael, Nubiyan Twist and many more, Waaju have released two highly successful albums with Olindo Records, which have been championed by the likes of Gilles Peterson, Jazz FM & Jordan Rakei. In their most recent project, Waaju collaborated with a true legend of Moroccan Gnawa music – Majid Bekkas – for a live session on Gilles Peterson’s BBC6 Music show as well as sold-out shows at London’s Church of Sound and Bristol’s Strange Brew.