Wajdi Riahi (piano) | Basile Rahola (double bass) | Pierre Hurty (drums)

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Tunisian born, Brussels based pianist Wajdi Riahi is one of the new exciting names within the Belgian jazz scene. Apart from being active as a side man in several projects (such as Stéphane Gallands' Rhythm Hunters, Aleph Quintet, Fabrice Allemand, ...) the prodigious pianist is making great name with his own trio. 

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He brings music that testifies to his Arab roots, mixed with his later love of jazz and the vibrant atmosphere of Brussels. He takes us on a journey through a subtle, mixed repertoire, a testament to his musical and human maturity. On December 1st 2023, the Wajdi Riahi Trio release their second album Essia.

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The record is a delicate weave of light, supple yet dense textures: craftsmanship that is both soft and robust. Wajdi reveals his lyricism throughout the songs, each of which stands alone but, like a collection of short stories, ultimately form a coherent whole.

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Whereas the first album Mhamdeya was steeped in nostalgia, this second opus tells of a journey between the pianist's two horizons: Tunis and Brussels. Stambeli and Gnawa music are an integral part of the album. The organic architecture of these (North) African rhythms blends with the complexity of jazz.

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Virtuosic yet poetic, the trio touches the ground and the sky. Hurty's drums stand out for their precision and dynamics, navigating the music with determination and serenity. Rahola's double bass brings a reassuring sound reminiscent of Charlie Heiden, surprising us with soaring moments in his chosen silences.