Few cities are fascinating like Granada. It is presumably down to the strong influences of Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultures all gathered in a same place over the years. The legacy of Al-Andalus as a charismatic and cosmopolitan region, lover of beauty and respectful of diversity is kept alive with projects like the one we are presenting this month on Groovalizacion. An ethnomusicological experiment carried out by Canyon Cody and his accomplice Gnotes from Gnawledge label and born from the intention of showing music as the most appropriate way to promote cultural mix and exchanges.

 

Sponsored by a Fulbright scholar grant, they brought together 16 musicians from Granada (not only of origin but of residence) to perform in jam sessions where everyone can freely express their identity, join in and mingle with the other artists on a journey with a unique destination: the blend. The result is a strong rhythm made of hip hop and electronic beats supporting a flamenco and Arabic music which inspired the entire project. Granada Doaba is a real tribute to the genuine cosmopolitanism of 13th century Spain and a true example that the coexistence of different cultures can be the drive of civilization