Gnawa – Kerkatou Burning Rhythm

Gnawa is a traditional style of music used in healing ceremonies that is native to North Africa. This music is typified by complex polyrhythmic playing of the Qraqeb, the large metallic castanet heard here.

This video reveals a high tempo version of the Kerkatou rhythm. We roll up through the spectral range, revealing complex polyrhythms and how they interlock to create a greater sense of rhythm.