Alsarah & The Nubatones, formed in 2011, are a Brooklyn-based ensemble led by Sudanese-American singer, songwriter, and ethnomusicologist Alsarah. Their distinctive "East African retro-pop" sound blends 1960s and 70s Nubian music with Arabic and North African influences, featuring pentatonic melodies and traditional instruments like the oud and percussion. The band's lineup includes Alsarah's sister, Nahid, on backing vocals, bassist Mawuena Kodjovi, oudist Brandon Terzic, and percussionist Rami El Aasser. They have released acclaimed albums such as "Silt" (2014) and "Manara" (2016), and have performed at major festivals worldwide, including Glastonbury, Roskilde, WOMAD, and SXSW. ([worldmusiccentral.org](https://worldmusiccentral.org/changing-rhythms-alsarah-the-nubatones-navigate-new-musical-terrain/?utm_source=openai))