Mamadou Sidibe & Eliyahu Sills

Please join us for an evening of Afro-Middle Eastern Fusion, featuring a new collaboration with Mamadou Sidibe, on Ngoni and vocals, master of Malian music, and Eliyahu Sills on Middle Eastern oud, flutes and bass.

This will be an evening of music from Mali and original music by both artists.

Mamadou Sidibe
The instrument that Sidibe plays, a 14-string kamele n’goni, is one that he pioneered. The traditional six-string donso n’goni is used for hunter rituals and ceremonies in the Wassoulou region where Mali, Ivory Coast, and Guinea converge. Sibide faced a good deal of resistance when he started adding strings and playing the instrument with the women who brought the incantatory Wassoulou sound to the world, particularly Coumba Sidibe (no direct relation) and Oumou Sangaré.

Eliyahu Sills
As a highly acclaimed musician of multiple instruments, Eliyahu’s devotion to his craft and his profound understanding of various musical lineages have garnered him recognition and admiration worldwide.

With a deep love and dedication to his art, Eliyahu has immersed himself in the study and performance of multiple musical traditions. These include folkloric and spiritual music of various Middle Eastern lineages, Indian Hindustani Ragas, and the multifaceted branches of African-American music, including Jazz, Soul, and Funk.

At the forefront of his musical endeavors stands The Qadim Ensemble, a groundbreaking project that transcends cultural boundaries to bring together the diverse musical traditions of the Middle East. With their CD reaching #7 on Billboard’s World Music charts, The Qadim Ensemble serves as a testament to Eliyahu’s dedication to bringing people of diverse cultures together through the universal language of music.

Eliyahu captivates audiences with soulful performances on instruments such as the ney flutes, Indian bansuri bamboo flute, and upright bass. His authenticity and skill resonate deeply, drawing listeners into the rich tapestry of his musical expression.

In addition to his work with The Qadim Ensemble, Eliyahu shines as a solo artist captivating audiences with his soulful performances on instruments such as the ney (Persian, Turkish, and Arabic reed flutes), the Indian bansuri bamboo flute, the upright bass and the oud. Whether exploring the depths of Hindustani Ragas, delving into Middle Eastern folkloric and devotional music, or breathing new life into ancient Jewish songs, Eliyahu’s authenticity and soulful musicianship leave an indelible mark on his listeners.

He performs throughout the country with his critically acclaimed band The Qadim Ensemble and as a solo artist as well as collaborating with many highly acclaimed musicians. Eliyahu continues to enchant audiences nationwide, from large concerts to intimate solo performances.

Tickets are $26 in advance and $30 at the door. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.

Doors open one half hour before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.

The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.

To join our mailing list, please click here.

Thank you for your support!

Please note: Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.

Host or Publisher Sam Rudin