About this Event
*NPR Music’s 10 Albums You Should Hear This Month (May 2025)*
“A brilliant release, a combination of sweltering psychedelic jazz and enigmatic Arabic folk..” Julian Cowley - The Wire
“Another change in sonic scenery for Maurice Louca, another moment of brilliance.” 8 Great Folk Albums From Spring/Summer 2025 Treble
“Fera suggest a more settled identity, with a core of stability acquired gradually as the music took shape.” Cal Cashin - Loud and Quite
“..noise and harmony in a work that remains in balance between avant- grade jazz and traditional polyrhythms..” Alex Paletta - HUFFPOST
“..Louca’s use of custom-made microtonal guitars allows for nuanced phrasings that weave through violin, synthesizer, and other instruments to create moments of striking beauty.” Cast The Dice
Maurice Louca Live
Fera is the latest album from Berlin-based Egyptian composer and multi instrumentalist Maurice Louca, released on Simsara Records in May 2025
Maurice Louca's Barĩy (Fera) (Simsara Records, 2025) is a bold and intricate exploration of rhythm, collaboration, and tone. Built on hypnotic polyrhythms and rich acoustic textures, the album balances careful composition with a wild, untamed spirit.
Louca’s microtonal guitars and nuanced phrasing form the backbone of pieces shaped over four years, originating from solo material developed in 2019 and refined in a Cairo studio in 2024. The nine-track record centers on polyrhythmic grooves and vibrant acoustic textures; violin, synthesizers, custom-built microtonal guitars, and percussion.
Joined by US-based collaborators including violinist Ayman Asfour - technically sophisticated and emotionally resonant, the duo delivers the full rhythmic and dynamic range of Fera in a powerful live setting.
About Maurice
One of the most gifted, prolific and adventurous figures on Egypt's thriving experimental arts scene, Louca has in recent years garnered a global reputation through solo albums and an expanding, evolving lineup of genre-defying collaborations.
Maurice Louca’s genre-defying music bridges psychedelic Egyptian shaabi, cosmic jazz, and free improvisation. He co-founded Lekhfa, performs with The Dwarfs of East Agouza, and leads the 10-member Elephantine ensemble. His acclaimed albums include Salute the Parrot (2014), Elephantine (2019), and The Luck Hour (2021).
Tickets £10 + fees advance/£15 on the door.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Elysium Gallery & Bar, 210 High Street, Swansea, United Kingdom
GBP 11.55
