Imbue is currently one of the greatest Arabic-Jazz fusion bands in Dubai. Their diverse roots and respective passions for music is what makes them so mesmerizingly dynamic.
Like the warm August sun, Syrian vocalist and guitarist Maher Al Halabi dawns on his audiences far and wide, his graceful voice melting hearts. Al Halabi’s voice, smooth and sensual, is perfect for his genre of singing. His motivation, he mentions, was that of a typical rebellious teenager.
“I just wanted to drive my parents crazy and find a place to run to,” said Halabi. “Music was that.”
Lebanese bassist Jeffery Ayache, known to be the former bassist of Mashrou’ Leila (2008), provides the ambient, subtle groove that makes Imbue so entrancing. Ayache has been slapping the bass for eleven years. “Music has always been my weakness and my strength. It's the way I express myself,” he said.
Growing up in a Columbian household means salsa (and I’m not talking about the dip) for Juan Manuel Arenas, the extremely talented drummer of Imbue. Having graduated from a music school with a percussions degree is a reflection of his great knowledge of music. Arenas plays all types of percussion instruments, from the drums to marimbas to the xylophone. Having moved around a lot because of his parents’ work, music was the drummer’s best friend, accompanying him wherever he went. “Music has always been my friend,” said Arenas.
Malena Avila, born in Havana, is not only gorgeous, but is also a stunning flutist. She ties the band together, leaving all those listening to Imbue curious to discover who the mysterious, enchanting woman is. Avila manages to showcase exactly who she is through her eccentric playing style, a mix of jazz and Cuban traditions.
Paired with the musicians is lyricist Bassel Abu Fadel, who currently lives abroad and was unavailable for an interview. His lyrics seem to leave the audience on their toes, slowly falling in love with Imbue with the passing of every verse.
The band members all met by chance, forming Imbue a little over two years ago, they soon realized that their skills complemented each other’s.
Imbue took the time to thank Abbo for his constant support, and the opportunity to jam at Go Play the World events.
“Without Abbo, we wouldn’t be here recording our song.”
Imbue is an inspiration, a wonderful mix of cultures that’s easy on the ears and pleasing to the mind. They dream big, and inspire people to dream even bigger.
