TURBO TABLA is the creation of Karim Nagi. He recontextualizes the melodies, rhythms and ecstatic practices of traditional Arab music into a universal urban medium. A true crossover artist, Karim re-imagines his tradition. He captures the old-school esoteric music of his culture and revitalizes it for our generation. Unlike many DJ/Remix artists, Karim is a musician and primary source. He performs the music from scratch with talented fellow musicians. He is completely imformed about the essential Arab music systems (maqam and iqaat) and remains avid in the performance of traditional music.
TURBO TABLA is a dancer's epiphany. Belly dancers from New York to California choreograph to Turbo Tabla songs. It has the magical ingredients: the rolling and sharp pops of the Arabic Tabla, the intoxicating Eastern microtonal melodies, and a techno house groove. Karim has made music for Bellydance Superstars, Bellyqueen, and BellyTwins.
Turbo Tabla has its own performance dance troupe. BELLYDANCE OVERDRIVE includes young and talented dancers, Meiver (Dominican Rep.), Lauren (USA) and Nina (Brazil), along with Karim. The troupe performs solos, duets and trios to Turbo Tabla songs and live music. They wear custom ethno-modern outfits designed by Karim, and perform a perfect concoction of traditional and progressive Arabic dance. They perform as concert opening acts, in dance festivals, headline nightclub events, and conduct dance parties.
