Club d'Elf is a unique and eclectic musical collective based in Boston, Massachusetts, that has been captivating audiences for nearly three decades with its mesmerizing blend of Moroccan traditional music, electronic funk, jazz, and world music influences.
Founded in 1998 by bassist and composer Mike Rivard, Club d'Elf began as a biweekly residency at Boston's Lizard Lounge at the urging of the late Mark Sandman of Morphine. The band's name is derived from a dream Rivard had during his first night in Morocco, where he felt himself swimming upwards in the air amidst fantastic landscapes.
The band revolves around a core group of musicians, with Rivard as the constant member and bandleader. Other key members have included:
Club d'Elf's music is characterized by its wide-ranging influences, which include:
The band's sound is deeply rooted in trance music, particularly Moroccan trance, which became an essential part of their repertoire under the guidance of Brahim Fribgane, a Casablanca native.
A distinctive aspect of Club d'Elf's music is Rivard's use of the sintir, a three-stringed bass lute from Morocco covered in camel skin. Rivard learned to play this instrument through the guidance of Fribgane and Gnawa masters Hassan Hakmoun and Mahmoud Guinia.
The band's live performances are known for their ever-shifting lineup, featuring guest musicians from various musical backgrounds. This approach allows for a dynamic and improvisational style that keeps their music fresh and engaging.
Over the years, Club d'Elf has collaborated with numerous renowned musicians, including:
Club d'Elf has released several albums throughout their career, including:
Their most recent album, "You Never Know" (2022), received critical acclaim and reached #2 on the Relix chart. The album features a mix of original compositions and covers of influential artists such as Miles Davis, Joe Zawinul, Moroccan band Nass el-Ghiwane, and Frank Zappa.
The creation of "You Never Know" was deeply influenced by Rivard's personal experiences. He suffered a near-death experience from a pulmonary embolism while in the Peruvian Amazon, which led to a period of depression. Rivard found solace and healing through his dedication to mastering the sintir and exploring Moroccan music.
Club d'Elf was named Jazz Act of 2023 in the Boston Music Awards, highlighting their significant impact on the jazz and world music scenes.
As of January 2024, Club d'Elf has begun sessions for a new album, with an expected release date in Summer 2025.
In conclusion, Club d'Elf stands out as a unique and innovative musical collective that seamlessly blends diverse musical traditions, creating a mesmerizing and genre-defying sound that continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide.
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