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Wajdi Riahi
Tunisian born, Brussels based pianist Wajdi Riahi is one of the new exciting names within the Belgian jazz scene. Apart from being active as a side man in several projects (such as Stéphane Gallands' Rhythm Hunters, Aleph Quintet, Fabrice Allemand..) the prodigious pianist is making great name with his own trio.
Wajdi has been working on a solo piano repertoire, to be brought live for the first time in BOZAR on February 23rd 2025. For this solo recital, Wajdi samples the multiple influences that underpin his highly personal style, imbued with gentleness and emotion. His own compositions will be altered with some standards from jazz and classical pieces.
He brings music that testifies to his Arab roots, mixed with his later love of jazz and the vibrant atmosphere of Brussels. He takes us on a journey through a subtle, mixed repertoire, a testament to his musical and human maturity. On December 1st 2023, the Wajdi Riahi Trio release their second album Essia., touring all over Europe and Canada.
The record is a delicate weave of light, supple yet dense textures: craftsmanship that is both soft and robust. Wajdi reveals his lyricism throughout the songs, each of which stands alone but, like a collection of short stories, ultimately form a coherent whole.
Whereas the first album Mhamdeya was steeped in nostalgia, this second opus tells of a journey between the pianist's two horizons: Tunis and Brussels. Stambeli and Gnawa music are an integral part of the album. The organic architecture of these (North) African rhythms blends with the complexity of jazz.
Virtuosic yet poetic, the trio touches the ground and the sky. Hurty's drums stand out for their precision and dynamics, navigating the music with determination and serenity. Rahola's double bass brings a reassuring sound reminiscent of Charlie Heiden, surprising us with soaring moments in his chosen silences.
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Wajdi Riahi: Something That Feels Honest
by Ieva Pakalniskyte
Wajdi Riahi, a Tunisian-born, Brussels-based jazz pianist and composer, is rapidly emerging as a distinctive voice on the European jazz scene. His music, deeply rooted in the jazz tradition, is also infused with the rich melodic and rhythmic colors of his North African heritage, creating a captivating and highly personal sound. Riahi's playing is marked by a remarkable sensitivity, a lyrical touch, and a sophisticated harmonic approach, balanced with a willingness to explore moments of free improvisation and rhythmic complexity. ...
Continue ReadingWajdi Riahi at Brussels Centre for Fine Arts
by Ieva Pakalniskyte
Wajdi Riahi The Centre for Fine Arts Brussels, Belgium February 23, 2025 Brussels' Centre for Fine Arts, Henry Le Boeuf Hall, played host to Wajdi Riahi's solo piano concert last Sunday of February. The intimate atmosphere was further enhanced by the unusual seating arrangement, with audience members surrounding Riahi on stage as well as filling the traditional seating area. This created a palpable sense of connection, drawing everyone closer to the the music. A ...
Continue ReadingStephane Galland & The Rhythm Hunters: Stephane Galland & The Rhythm Hunters
by Glenn Astarita
In the dense jungle of contemporary jazz, where rhythm is both compass and sustenance, Belgian drummer Stéphane Galland emerges as our audacious guide. His European ensemble, The Rhythm Hunters, embarks on a musical safari that transcends borders, time zones and conventional beats. From the initial moments of the album's opener, “Morpheus," listeners are transported into a realm where the pulse of the percussion reigns supreme. Stephane Galland, the maestro behind the drum kit, leads the charge with a ...
Continue ReadingCantering North African rhythms coursed through "Hymn to Stambeli," the trio's tempo waxing and waning alluringly, melody and rhythm tussling playfully before building to a powerful finale. Another half an hour and some would not have gone amiss. A trio to watch out for.
~All About Jazz
Overall, it’s a beautiful album that takes the modern jazz piano trio in an exciting new direction. And given that they only started in 2020 and have already recorded two exceptional albums, they’re a trio worth watching as well as listening to.
~London Jazz News (UK)
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Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson
