Kazdoura

Kazdoura is a Toronto-based band founded by Syrian singer Leen Hamo, who moved to Canada eight years ago due to war, and Lebanese-Canadian multi-instrumentalist John Abou Chacra. Drawing from their Levantine Arabic roots they craft original compositions that celebrate cross-cultural connections, experimenting with various genres, fusing Arabic maqams with psychedelia, Afro-funk, jazz fusion and dream pop elements. Leen’s lyrics reflect upon personal feelings, from poignant examinations of displacement and the sense of belonging to wry commentaries on the joys and vagaries of love. A fixture of the club scene in Toronto and favourites at Canadian folk festivals, this year has seen them expanding across borders with tours in the UK, Egypt and the Netherlands, performing at iconic venues like Cairo Jazz Club and the Scarborough Folk Festival, alongside the release of their debut album, Ghoyoum.