The iconic ensemble returns to the capital on 14 November for a one-night performance at Grand Junction.
The Egyptian Jazz Projekt is heading back to London this autumn, taking over Grand Junction in West London for a special concert on 14 November from 8pm to 10.30pm. Timed to coincide with the opening night of EFG London Jazz Festival 2025, the one-night engagement promises a musical journey through the golden age of Egyptian cinema, reimagined through a sophisticated jazz lens.
Following a sold-out London performance last year, esteemed jazz vocalist Ahmed Harfoush and his ensemble have curated a programme that celebrates the soundtracks and stars that defined the 1950s and 60s. Expect elegant swing, sultry ballads and tight modern arrangements that pay tribute to icons such as Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Shadia, Abdel Halim Hafez, Farid El Atrash, Saad Abdel Wahab and Laila Murad.
Led by Harfoush on vocals, The Egyptian Jazz Projekt features Stefano Marzanni on piano, Ian Marcus on double bass, Dom Hall on drums and Tom Smith on clarinet. Together they move with finesse, balancing reverence for the originals with improvisational flair. The setlist leans into nostalgia but never settles for imitation, allowing each musician room to illuminate familiar melodies with fresh harmonies and rhythmic detail.
Founded in 2015 by Harfoush after his London-based HarfousH Jazz Band captured the imagination of Arab audiences, The Egyptian Jazz Projekt has since toured internationally and appeared at cultural landmarks including Royal Albert Hall, The Egyptian Art Academy in Rome, Dubai Opera and Cairo Opera House. Their London appearances at previous editions of EFG London Jazz Festival have cemented the group’s reputation as refined ambassadors for a cross-cultural sound that resonates well beyond the Arabic-speaking world.
Presented by Arts Canteen in collaboration with Grand Junction, this year’s concert offers festival-goers a chance to discover Egypt’s cinematic songbook anew. With just one date on the calendar, early booking is advised.
GO: Visit https://grandjunction.org.uk for more information.