Saturday night with Okailey at Jamboree - an extraordinary ensemble igniting stages with a powerful fusion of Ghanaian music—with energy so electrifying it sets the heart ablaze! In support, the ace Mouad Neghma, master of the guembri and guitar, blends traditional Gnawa music with jazz, blues and world music.

Okailey's sound blends the warmth of traditional Ga melodies, the drive of Afro‑rock guitar riffs, and the freedom of jazz improvisation into an unforgettable experience; a vivid tapestry of rhythm, melody and cultural expression.

At the heart of the ensemble is Abass Dodoo, the Ghanaian master drummer whose lead percussion forms the rhythmic foundation of Okailey's sound. His intricate polyrhythms — played on traditional West African instruments, the ancestors of the Kpanlogo and Gome — create the heartbeat that drives the entire ensemble. Surrounding Abass meanwhile is a dynamic group of international musicians, each bringing their own cultural voice and artistic brilliance:

Alex Dmochowski, saxophonist from London, whose soulful, soaring lines weave effortlessly through the rhythms.
Ajay Ratan, saxophonist from Trinidad via Leicester, adding vibrant flavour and rhythmic colour.
Benjamin Armah, bass guitarist from Ghana, grounding the ensemble with deep, melodic grooves.
Boris Latinov, guitarist from Switzerland, delivering Afro‑rock fire and expressive melodic textures.
Julie Brussel, violinist from Germany, adding lyrical warmth and cinematic depth.
Niiboye Owoo, vocalist and flautist from Ghana, whose voice and flute bring storytelling, spirit, and ancestral resonance.
Mershack Tagoe, percussionist from Ghana, expanding the rhythmic landscape with dynamic interplay and traditional mastery.

Together they create a rich, immersive journey into the soul of African music — one that honours tradition while boldly reinventing it. Even classic songs by Ginger Baker and Cream are reborn through their vibrant African Highlife interpretations.

The name Okailey is a heartfelt tribute to Abass' grandmother, whose songs first awakened his love for rhythm in Accra. Guided by his uncle, the legendary Mustapha Tettey Addy, Abass has travelled the world, sharing stages with icons such as Ginger Baker, Tony Allen, Bernard Marsden, Pee Wee Ellis, Van Morrison, Alec Dankworth, Pete Brown, Jonas Hellborg, Herman Rarebell, Malcolm Bruce, Regi Wooten, Michael Mondesir, Kofi Ghanaba, and blues‑rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa.

Experience the magic of Okailey — where West African music becomes a vibrant, breathing force that lifts the spirit and unites us all.

In support, Mouad Neghma is a Moroccan singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for blending traditional Gnawa music with modern influences such as jazz, blues, and world music. He is recognized for his soulful vocals and mastery of instruments like the guembri and guitar, creating a sound rooted in Moroccan heritage while remaining contemporary and global. Mouad is also active in live performances and cultural projects that celebrate North African and African musical traditions.

Jamboree food option: Our ‘Zer’ kitchen is open from 5pm serving delicious Middle Eastern fusion food for you to enjoy a meal/snack if you wish!

Okailey

Tickets & tour dates

April