“Nuba Nova 2” : Mehdi Haddab et Meryem Koufi font la nouba en se jouant de la tradition

The dialogue between tradition and innovation finds a striking exemplar in the collaborative work of Mehdi Haddab and Meryem Koufi, two artists reshaping the contours of arabo-andalusian music. Their latest project, "Nuba Nova 2," continues the artistic journey initiated in 2021, blending classical roots with contemporary musical elements to reimagine a centuries-old genre.

Mehdi Haddab, a Franco-Algerian oud virtuoso known for his dynamic approach and previous projects like DuOud and Mademoiselle, anchors this endeavor with his electric oud performances. Alongside him, Meryem Koufi, an Algerian singer, composer, and distinctive kouitra (a traditional lute) player, contributes a rare instrumental voice and a modern sensibility. Both artists approach the arabo-andalusian heritage with reverence and a shared desire to explore new musical territories beyond conventional boundaries.

The arabo-andalusian nouba—originating in the 9th century at the Cordoban court—is a complex musical suite traditionally structured in five movements, combining melodic and poetic elements. This form, deeply embedded in the cultural history of the Maghreb and Andalusia, serves as the foundational framework for Haddab and Koufi’s reimagined compositions. However, they selectively preserve structural aspects, such as the five-part division, while infusing the music with fresh rhythmic and harmonic textures.

A notable characteristic of "Nuba Nova 2" is the integration of modern sounds including bass, drums, and synthesizers, which interact with the oud and kouitra to create a rich sonic palette. This combination allows the music to oscillate between instrumental and vocal passages, maintaining a balance that respects the traditional essence while engaging contemporary listeners.

This project follows the precedent set by Haddab’s earlier collaboration featured in "Nuba Nova 1" (2021), where he worked with Hamdi Benani, a revered malouf singer from Annaba. In contrast, the current partnership with Koufi brings a fresh dynamic, as both artists share a commitment to innovation without forsaking their classical training.

The result is a musical conversation that honors the heritage of arabo-andalusian soundscapes while embracing the possibilities of modern instrumentation and arrangement. The compositions allow moments of open improvisation alongside carefully constructed polyphonic and percussive layers, reflecting both the artists’ mastery and their willingness to push beyond traditional limits.

Set against the backdrop of Paris, where Haddab and Koufi’s artistry converges, the new work invites audiences to experience the nouba tradition through a contemporary lens. Their upcoming concert, scheduled for a Wednesday evening in the city, offers a live manifestation of this evolving dialogue between past and present.

While details regarding the full breadth of the album and future plans remain limited, "Nuba Nova 2" stands as a testament to the vitality and adaptability of arabo-andalusian music. Haddab and Koufi’s efforts exemplify how historical musical forms can be revitalized through innovation, ensuring their relevance for new generations and diverse audiences.

In essence, this collaboration underscores the ongoing cultural exchange embedded within arabo-andalusian music, demonstrating that tradition is not static but a living art form capable of transformation and renewal.