Mzaza explores the crossroads between ancient and contemporary melodies from France, Spain, the Balkans and the Middle East.

Mzaza boasts an enthralling stage show featuring exotic instruments such as the kamanche tarhu (Persian spikefiddle), kaval and ney (Balkan and Turkish flutes), ud, darabuka, tombak and bendir. The band showcases some of Brisbane’s very best world musicians.

French-Moroccan vocalist Pauline Maudy sings in French, Spanish, and Turkish, combining traditional and contemporary vocal styles and captivating audiences with her presence.

This show is set to be one of Mzaza’s most spectacular as the band presents its second release and celebrates recent collaboration with acclaimed guitarist Andrew Veivers.

Mzaza’s first release, Parliament Of The Birds (2009), gained the band national exposure and invitations to perform at major music festivals including Woodford, Brisbane Festival, and the National Folk Festival.

“Brisbane based Pauline Maudy, an expatriate French singer, heartbreakingly channelled Edith Piaf..…More, please.” Ken Lord, The Sunday Mail, 2008

“This EP release, Parliament of the Birds, from Mzaza is my case in point… Each track displays such a high level of musicianship..…I was particularly impressed by Pauline’s easy vocal style which belies her level of skill and technique and astounded by her capability to sing in such a range of languages. I have rarely heard such diversity and versatility in a World “Fusion” band. Mzaza’s driving rhythms and haunting melodic lines made me yearn for exotic places and adventures.” Lonnie Martin, The Folk Rag 2009

“If you ever feel you are in the wrong country, listen to Mzaza and you will know you are.… Mzaza have a unique style and incredible passion which echo through the transfixed audience.” Lisa Lamb, LifeMusicMedia, 25th of April 2009

PLANET is the Brisbane Powerhouse dedicated world music and dance program. This project has received financial assistance from the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

Images by Juanita Broberick and Richard Walker.

On sale soon!