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Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Out of the Park, Roots Rewired and The Freight proudly present
El Khat
Junkyard Funk from Yemen!
special guest TBA
doors 7pm / showtime 8pm
“Brilliant!” - Gilles Peterson
“Vigorous psychedelic stomps … an exciting new discovery.” - Uncut
El Khat is a homemade junkyard band led by multi-instrumentalist Eyal El Wahab. Their original compositions are inspired by the music of the golden age in Aden, Yemen.
Experimenting with DIY, self-made instruments as an expression of a minimalist life philosophy—while remaining loyal to traditional Yemeni percussive roots—the three-piece developed a unique Arabic-Yemeni style. Although their detachment from any nation or flag is a driving force behind the group, the heart of their music and heritage remains deeply rooted in Yemeni culture. The constant divisions created by war and migration have given rise to a reassembled identity, one that resonates strongly throughout El Khat’s music. With a fourth album to be released in 2026, El Khat continues to forge a sound that bridges past and present—keeping Yemeni culture alive while reimagining its future.
''everything is recycled metal, plastic or wood.... like a huge, disgruntled anima shaking itself into life.” - **** Financial Times