From what everyone tells me, the jazz, rap and oud concert in The Gallery, Gaza’s premier venue, was abnormal. Since Hamas took over, music has been limited in the isolated territory of coastal Palestine. Rappers were forced to sign contracts stating they wouldn’t spit rhymes, according to rumour. But two nights ago, I and about two hundred others, listened to a rocking German jazz band. The all-female band enraptured the male-majority audience with their chops as well and blonde locks. I had never seen eyes or jaws that wide open.
Following their set, a Gazan rap duo assumed stage and rocked the mic (despite malfunctions). Afterwards, a blind oud player took the stage.
