World Music: Kiran Ahluwalia

Kiran Ahluwalia’s open-hearted vocals and contemporary compositions showcase the rich musical styles of India and Pakistan.  Her musical roots delve deep into Sufi, Qawalli, Ghazal, and Punjabi Folk from which she crafts her own modern compositions - songs that effortlessly blend lyrical introspection with enticing rhythmic allure, while soulfully intertwining the sounds of West African Blues and Jazz, welcoming listeners with open arms, transcending cultural boundaries and creating a sound that is utterly captivating.

On stage Kiran's instrumentation includes drum kit, tabla, accordion, and organ - at the helm of the group is virtuoso guitarist Rez Abbasi, a name synonymous with excellence, he consistently ranks among the top-ten Guitarists in Downbeat's annual International Critics Poll. Kiran's and Rez's partnership is also a real-life love story - a union of two souls, one born in India and the other in Pakistan. Despite the historical strife between their respective homelands, they transcended ethnic and religious boundaries to forge a profound connection in life and music.

Lyrically, Kiran's songs explore the vast spectrum of human experience, addressing themes as broad as cultural intolerance and as personal as the struggle to embrace female desire unburdened by shame. With seven albums and two JUNO Awards to her credit, Ahluwalia's many accolades speak for themselves. This concert promises to be a special occasion - including the unveiling of the first single from her eagerly anticipated new album.