Aar Maanta is a Somali musician whose music embraces an eclectic mix of styles including influences from rock and reggae jostling with traditional Arabic and Somali music.

Tahriib (meaning irregular migration) is the first studio album created by London-based Somali artist Aar Maanta and his multicultural band The Urban Nomads.

The album flows between genres, mixing traditional Somali music with funk, jazz and reggae influenced beats. Written in the traditional Somali poetic form using allegory and alliteration the album tackles issues of importance to the large Somali community in the Diaspora and those back in horn of Africa.

Joining the bill is special guest Maryam Mursal, one of Somalia's greatest voices and 'Real World Records' artist.

Preview: London African Music Festival @ London (Various Venues, 18-27 September 2015)

For the thirteenth year in a row, London becomes the northernmost African city. Twenty-six acts spread over ten days of “glorious music” and ten London vibrant venues will bring to life the 2015 edition of the London African Music Festival. The event, organized by Joyful Noise since 2003, has always…

Artists: Aar Maanta , Daby Touré , Ebo Taylor , Gordon Masiala , Joe Driscoll And Sekou Kouyate , Mose Fan Fan , Oum , Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 , Suzanna Lubrano , Yinka Davies

Interview: Aar Maanta @ Womad 2014

If Aar Maanta’s community in the UK had had their way, the artist who is today considered to be the voice of the new Somali generation should have become a scientist. The fact that instead he is revered as one of the most important musicians of the Horn of Africa…

Artists: Aar Maanta