Najma Akhtar

Najma Akhtar, vocalist, songwriter takes us on a mystical spiritual path with a repertoire crossing East to West. Traditional Ghazal & Sufi songs alongside her ‘Five Rivers’ project takes us on a musical journey that starts in the Indus, to the Niger, Thames, Shannon and Mississippi.

Band Line Up
Najma Akhtar (Vocals & Harmonium)
Ramon Goose (Guitars)
Chris Haigh (Violin)
John Deemer (Bass & Keyboards)
Matt Fisher (Kit & Percussion)

Najma Akhtar grew up within the tradition of Ghazal (Romantic Urdu ballads) and continues to explore synergies that exist between the ancient poetic art form of South East Asian Ghazal and the Western traditions of song. She has worked and collaborated with many renowned artists such as, Philip Glass, Jah Wobble, Basement Jaxx, Jimmy Page and Robert plant.

Photo Credit: Alice Mutasa

“This is no crossover; it is a bold metaphorical journey in which she sails down the five rivers of the title- the Ganges, Niger, Thames, Shannon and Mississippi” – Nigel Williamson, Songlines.

“To sum up, this is coherent, intelligent, listenable and very successful.” – Norman Darwen, Rock n Reel Magazine

“Highlights are frequent, and include a breath-taking, Black Is The Colour Of My True Loves Hair, featuring a flowing, nuanced vocal performance reminiscent of Jeff Buckley, and Akhtar’s own entrancing composition Dancing Waltz.” – Rich Davenport, Record Collector

“Mysticism to spare on a sonic expedition from the Ganges to the Thames…deftly combines ancient Indian poetic artistry with Western folk and rock forms.” – Paul Sexton, Prog Magazine.

“effortless artistry and emotional daring” – Rolling Stones magazine

“The pure soaring arc of Najma’s voice remains above emulation”. – The Observer