Arooj Aftab’s performance at the Brighton Dome Concert Hall for Brighton Festival was more than a concert. It was a profound journey; a tapestry of sound woven with jazz, tradition and a touch of ethereal magic.
From the moment she stepped onto the subtly lit stage, there was an enchanting welcome from the audience, a sense that we were about to witness something truly special. And do you know what it was? Honesty, authenticity and love.
This programme was honoured to host Wooly Aziz along with his stage partner, an incredible keyboard artist. The two have created a deeply soulful and sonic project. It was a nostalgic and hopeful journey for our bodies, a powerful and atmospheric adventure through lyrical storytelling that drew us in and allows us to realise the powerful background of the artists. This incredible experience was the beginning of welcoming Arooj Aftab.
The musicians, playing guitar, cello, accordion and drums, were carefully arranged, each instrument finding its own place in the soundscape. It is usual for the singer to take centre stage, but the synergy of the group allowed Aftab to retreat into her authentic personality during each instrumental solo, sipping quietly while her incredibly talented bandmates shone as the stars they are. I was pleasantly surprised by this. It is a theme not often observed in music. This act enhanced this supersonic encounter full of mysticism and spontaneity; it was not just about showcasing individual skills, but fostering a collective brilliance, a sense of shared artistry that resonated deeply with the audience.
And what artistry it was – a mesmerising blend of intricate jazz harmonies with the soulful depth of Sufi poetry. Hints of classical Hindustani vocalisations intertwined with ambient textures to create a sound that felt both ancient and utterly contemporary. It was a sound that seemed to bridge dimensions, a feeling I can only describe as a conduit between the earthly and the celestial.
The music of Arooj Aftab felt like a hand reaching out to me, a testament to the power of trusting in the experience. A delightful touch of unexpected passion was added by the presence of the accordionist, whose playing was both technically brilliant and joyfully expressive. The standard of playing was high.
This element of playful energy further enriched the evening and demonstrated the multifaceted nature of Arooj Aftab’s musical vision. And then there is her voice. A voice that is, one might say, strong, vulnerable and unique in its emotional weight and resonant timbre. It carries stories, whispers secrets and soars with a quiet power that takes your breath away. It’s an instrument capable of conveying both profound sorrow and transcendent joy.
Arooj Aftab’s performance was more than a musical event; it was an experience. It was a reminder of the power of music to connect us to something greater than ourselves, to create spaces where earthly boundaries dissolve and the spirit can soar. If her music is indeed magical, then the Brighton Festival was witness to a truly enchanting evening.
Brighton Festival: Tickets
