ABOUT
Ghalia
A musical journey across cultures and emotions
Ghalia, meaning "the beloved" in Arabic, is a mesmerizing musical performance that weaves together stories and emotions through the universal language of music. The ensemble features Nadin Al Khalidi on vocals, guitar, and Algerian mandol, alongside Cassius Lambert on bass and live loop effects. Together, they create a rich sonic experience that blends traditional Arabic melodies with the duo’s original compositions.At the heart of Ghalia lies storytelling, with Nadin’s voice acting as the guide through a tapestry of emotional landscapes and cultural worlds. Each song takes the listener deeper into the musician’s shared universe, offering tales of love, loss, and longing—from ancient cities to the contemporary quest for understanding and connection.
Ghalia is an invitation to embark on a journey across cultures and traditions, where music serves as a bridge between past and present, and as a reminder of our shared humanity. Nadin and Cassius demonstrate that music can always lead us to common ground.
It is an unmissable experience for those who seek to connect deeply with the power of music and storytelling.
Background
Nadin Al Khalidi was born in Baghdad and raised in both Baghdad and Cairo. She studied classical music and violin at the Music School in Baghdad before fleeing Iraq in 2001. Since then, she has lived and worked in Sweden. Internationally, Nadin is known for her powerful lyrics and distinctive voice, particularly with her acclaimed group Tarabband, which has a dedicated audience in Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and North Africa. Her accolades include winning the “Tradition Bearer of the Year” award at the Folk and World Music Gala in 2014 and “Group of the Year” with Tarabband in Sweden in 2016. She also received the SKAP, Sparbanksstiftelsen Culture Prize, Malmö Municipality Prize, and an STIM scholarship in 2021.Cassius Lambert, a Swedish-Ethiopian bassist and composer from Abbekås in Sweden has an innovative and unconventional approach to the electric bass. He studied at Skurup Folk High School and the Rhythmic Music Conservatory in Copenhagen. Cassius tours nationally and internationally, performing with groups like Tarabband and leading his projects, BITOI and Cassius Lambert Solo. His artistry has earned him recognition, including Malmö City's Cultural Scholarship and the SKAP Music Award.
Nadin and Cassius bring their diverse backgrounds and exceptional talents to create a unique and transformative musical experience.