Audiences in Bishop Hill are set for a musical journey as El Khat, the acclaimed Arabic-Yemeni trio, takes the stage at Bishop Hill Creative Commons on November 17th. Known for blending traditional Yemeni rhythms with daring experimental sounds and homemade instruments, El Khat brings a unique energy deeply rooted in cultural memory and creative reinvention. The evening begins with a potluck and social hour at 6:00, followed by the concert at 7:00. All are encouraged to bring food, drinks, and blankets. Donations from $20 to $30 go directly to the artists. Full event details can be found at xroadscc.org.
El Khat, formed in 2019, continues to captivate international audiences with a bold fusion of traditional Yemeni rhythms and experimental composition. Forged in impromptu jam sessions, the group’s distinctive sound is carried by handmade instruments, echoing themes of heritage, displacement, and cultural identity. The trio—Eyal el Wahab, Lo tan Yaish, and Yefet Hassan—blend earthy percussion, pulsing organ, and evocative vocals, transforming Yemeni folk forms into something radically modern. With three albums already released and a fourth on the horizon for 2026, El Khat’s performances are celebrated globally for their raw inventiveness and deep-rooted storytelling, uniting communities through rhythm and innovation.
