[DID NOT ATTEND: February 4, 2026] Mdou Moctar / Koof Ibi
I have seen Mdou Moctar twice, both in 2024.
His shows (first electric, second acoustic) were really enjoyable. He’s an amazing player and really charming. I’ve not seen him solo and I’m not sure if it was electric or acoustic. But I didn’t feel like going out to this show. I’m sure I’ll see him again in thefuture though.
Kooh Ibi is a trumpet player born in New Jersey who is now in Philly. He loops and samples music to create his trumpet pieces. I listened to a few minutes of one and it was remarkably subdued–but really interesting.
This was probably a cool chill evening of jazzy music.
I really like The Messthetics (including the name). The band has at its core drummer Brendan Canty and bassist Joe Lally who were both in Fugazi. Along with guitarist Anthony Pirog, they make cool and interesting instrumental rock. They have been pretty high on my list of bands to see. (more…)
I Just Read About That... 