Written by With the current jazz scene full of global fusion exchanges, German band SADA is breathing new life into the concept by crafting an original fusion where jazz-rock meets the ancient modal structures of Middle Eastern Maqam, creating a sound both deeply rooted in tradition and strikingly innovative.
SADA’s approach rejects simple genre-crossing in favor of a fully integrated musical language. Their instrumentation features traditional Arabic instruments such as the ney and qanun interwoven with electric guitar, bass, drums, and trumpet. This combination results in a multi-layered sonic tapestry where complex grooves and progressive rock riffs meet evocative Arabic melodies, creating music that is remarkably dense, dynamic, and textured.
At the core of SADA’s artistry is a spirit of mutual respect and curiosity. Band members—four from Germany and two from Syria—engage in a genuine cultural exchange, exploring ideas of musical identity and expression that transcend borders. This collaborative ethos emerges not only in composition but also in every note of their performances, making the music a living, breathing dialogue.
The band is preparing to release their debut album, *Echoes of Maqam*, in spring 2026 on Neuklang Records. Recorded at the revered Bauer Studios Ludwigsburg under the guidance of producer Vladimir Ivanoff, the album captures SADA’s rich interplay and inventive compositional voice. Guest artists contribute additional layers, enriching the group’s signature blend of East and West.
What distinguishes SADA most vividly is the energy of their live shows. On stage, the meeting of East and West becomes an immersive sonic journey. The piercing clarity of the ney and the shimmering strings of the qanun play off the raw power of drums and electric guitar, with the trumpet weaving through like a vibrant thread. Improvisation plays a central role, each performance a unique exploration that reflects the band’s commitment to spontaneity and dialogue.
SADA’s soundscape reflects the promise of musical hybridity, not as a static ideal but as a vibrant, evolving tradition that inspires fresh perspectives and new ways forward.
With a release tour currently in the works, SADA will soon bring their transcultural sound into concert halls, promising performances as adventurous and engaging as their recordings. Their ambition is clear: to establish themselves firmly in Europe’s jazz and rock scenes and build a lasting platform that supports artistic growth and international collaboration.
SADA exemplifies a growing movement within European jazz, where artists draw on diasporic histories and diverse musical traditions to reshape the genre’s future. Through “Echoes of Maqam” and the vitality of their live work, they offer a compelling glimpse into the rich creative possibilities at the heart of 21st-century jazz fusion.
You can find out more about SADA here at their website.
Editors Note: Please keep an eye on Jazz In Europe for more details on Echoes of Maqam and a feature interview with the band coming soon.
Last modified: September 18, 2025
