Ruba Shamshoum - 'Shamat' Album Launch Gig
At a glance
About this event
On May 25th, Palestinian vocalist, Ruba Shamshoum will launch her debut album ‘Shamat’ (Beauty Spots) at Whelan’s - upstairs. Ruba’s music draws from the harmony, sensibility, improvisation and playfulness of jazz, mixed with tinges of Middle Eastern and Arabic musical elements, that compliment her style. Ruba sings in both Arabic and English, and uses music to deal with identity, anger, lack of communication, fear and love.
2016 was a great year for Ruba’s music; playing international festivals, giving a TED talk at TEDx London Business School, and recording her first album with acclaimed musicians. This gig at Whelan’s will be a celebration of her journey.
Line-up
Orlando Molina (Venezuela) - guitar
Barry Rycraft (Ireland) - double bass
Matthew Jacobson (Ireland) - drums
Aleka Potinga (Romania) - cello
Matthew Berrill (Ireland) - clarinet
“Ruba’s songs have strong narratives about exile, hope and love. Her distinct jazz influences allowed space to flourish with a band drawn from the elite of the Dublin jazz scene.”
- Hot Press
“Jazzy, soulful and heart-felt, her catchy compositions are infectiously delightful. Her formal jazz training is evident in the improvised vocal scat she peppers into her songs that creates a beautifully vintage atmosphere of a bygone era.”
- Mideast Tunes
Support on the night from the unique Ríona Sally Hartman playing a stripped down duo set.
“The craft of the songs draws you in - delicate vocal harmonies and sparse acoustic settings, fresh and unclichéd… bearing most comparison with intrepid New York singers like Theo Bleckmann and Becca Stevens.”
- The Irish Times
Location
25 Wexford St, Dublin 2
Venue details
Whelan’s is in the unique position of being not only one of the most important live music venues of the last decade, but also one of Ireland’s most famous pubs, favoured for its warm, convivial atmosphere. Whelan’s live venue and bar is located on the bustling Wexford Street strip in Dublin’s city centre.
