EMEL at The Freight

words by Patty Riek
photos by Jon Bauer

Emel Mathlouthi’s intimate show at The Freight on Sunday, February 16 offered an artfully inspiring evening.

Emel’s work is a striking melange of past and present musical forces. Using loops, pre-recorded raps, electronica, and multiple percussive elements, her captivating stage presence melded music with video, theater, fashion, and spoken word. By far, the most compelling part of the show was her voice. Emel’s haunting vocals emanate deep within her, pulling forth the ancient musical traditions of her native Tunisia to soar across time and geography.

First known as the voice of the Tunsian uprising leading to the Arab spring with her song “Kelmti Horra” (“My Word is Free”), Emel’s work centers on protest. Her song “Souty” clearly articulates her vision to use her voice to “speak up against oppression and dictatorship” as well as to forge connections. Sunday’s show centered on her most recent album MRA which highlights her feminist ideals. Proud that the album is 100% female made, Emel loved sharing space with “30 women from 22 parts of the world” to craft her most recently work. The night featured eight songs from MRA including a moving “Mazel” which honors the resilience of a transwoman overcoming sexual assault.

One of the highlights of the evening was a rousing rendition of “Massive Will.” Written as a message that in difficult times we need to face challenges through a “collective strength.” The messages of collectivism and resilience was also evident in “Rise” during which Emel had the audience singing along to the refrain“I will rise again.”

Backed by Pier Luigi on keyboards and cinque on drums. The three performers formed a visual triangle, and their musical contributions supported the overall sonic architecture of the evening.

Ending the show with an encore alone on stage, Emel offered two a cappella Middle Eastern protest songs illuminating the acoustic beauty of her voice.

Co-presented with the Diaspora Arts Connection, Nazy Kaviani shared that the mission of the organization is to “build community by sharing the gifts, arts, and culture that immigrants bring.” Thank you to Emel, the Diaspora Arts Connection, and The Freight for an uplifting evening!

Interested in more? The Diaspora Arts Connection hosts other events including an annual Let Her Sing celebration of often silenced female voices (Emel performed in the 2023 Let Her Sing). Also, check out The Freight’s schedule.