MALIKA ZARRA  / LEONARDO MONTANA DUO JAZZ

With her velvety, sinuous mezzo-soprano voice, Malika Zarra takes her audience on a journey of energetic improvisations, blending chaabi, Berber rhythms, and Gnawa groove. A true tightrope walker of sound, she navigates between melodies with astonishing ease and juggles effortlessly between Persian, English, and French. Her world? An explosive mix of refined improvisations and boundless musical freedom. Originally from Morocco, Malika spent time in France before settling in New York, distilling a little of each culture into her colorful music. Jazz reigns supreme, but there is also room for soul, youyous, and African vibrations that transcend borders. Never taking the easy route, the Berber diva surprises and charms with her melodic fluidity and the rich sound that envelops her. At her side is Leonardo Montana on piano: a true musical chameleon, equally at ease with pure jazz and the most daring explorations. He has shared the stage with a host of major artists: Felipe Cabrera, Arnaud Dolmen, Raul de Souza, Samy Thiébault, Anne Paceo, Géraldine Laurent, and many others, all over the world, at festivals and legendary clubs. As a solo artist, he has already released two critically acclaimed albums: A Flor da Pele (2022, Paradis Improvisé label) and Joruri (2023, Émouvance label).