Tunisian pianist and composer Wajdi Riahi recently performed with his trio at the Carthage Musical Days (JMC) on October 5. This was his third appearance at the event, following his previous performances in 2017 and 2019. Riahi's concert was a testament to his technical prowess and ability to craft emotionally charged musical experiences. He was joined on stage by Basile Rahola on double bass and Pierre Hurty on drums.
Riahi's musical journey has been marked by his evolution from classical music to jazz, with influences from Arabic and Mediterranean traditions. He has collaborated with various artists and participated in several projects, including "Hard Bop" with the Jazz Club, "Darimba" with Wassim Ben Rhouma, and "The Rythm Hunters" with Stéphane Galland. In 2017, Riahi's project "North Africa" won three awards at the JMC, including the Tanit de bronze, best composition, and best soloist.
The trio's setlist featured a selection of tracks from their three albums: "Mhamdeya" (2022), "Essia" (2023), and the live album "Zabonprés Sessions" (2025). They also gave a sneak peek of their upcoming album, set to be released in January. The concert was a masterclass in musical chemistry, with Riahi's piano playing ranging from percussive to virtuosic. The trio's performance of "Lella Fatima", "Saignant", and "Cease Fire" left the audience in awe.
One of the standout aspects of the concert was the emphasis on improvisation. The trio's interplay was seamless, and Riahi's ability to balance technicality with emotional depth was on full display. He also took a moment to speak with the audience, highlighting the joy of performing with friends both on and off stage. The concert was a celebration of the bond between musicians and the power of music to evoke emotions.
A poignant moment in the concert came when Riahi paid tribute to his grandfather, who inspired much of his music. Riahi shared stories of his grandfather's influence and the special bond they shared. He performed "Lella Fatima", a piece that drew from his childhood memories and his grandfather's love of music. The track was a beautiful homage to his grandfather, who is now living with Alzheimer's disease.
The highlight of the concert was "Amor's Memories", a piece that featured a recording of Riahi's grandfather speaking about his daily life and struggles with illness. The track was a powerful exploration of memory, love, and loss. Riahi's piano playing was accompanied by his grandfather's voice, creating a deeply moving experience for the audience. The piece was a testament to the enduring power of music to capture the human experience.
The concert concluded with a blend of jazz and oriental influences, showcasing Riahi's unique fusion of styles. His ability to merge different musical traditions has earned him a reputation as a innovative and exciting artist. The JMC event was a fitting platform for Riahi's performance, which embodied the festival's spirit of creativity, quality, and cultural exchange.
Key points
- Wajdi Riahi's trio performance at the Carthage Musical Days showcased his unique blend of jazz and Mediterranean influences.
- The concert featured a selection of tracks from the trio's three albums, as well as a sneak peek of their upcoming album.
- Riahi's music is deeply personal, drawing inspiration from his Tunisian heritage and his relationship with his grandfather.
