Post by : Saif
Al-Najjar
Jeddah, September 29, 2025 – The US Consulate General in Jeddah, in partnership with Hayy Jameel, recently hosted a special performance by the American bluegrass band Damn Tall Buildings at Hayy Jameel. The event highlighted a unique fusion of American bluegrass and Arabic music, creating a vibrant cross-cultural experience for the audience.
A Blend of Cultures Through Music
The band’s performance was part of their cultural program in Saudi Arabia. They presented a fresh take on traditional bluegrass music, mixing folk sounds with modern energy. The audience responded enthusiastically to this blend of styles, which brought new life to the performance.
Saudi composer Majed Mohammed, who collaborated with the band, described the experience as transformative. “Collaboration is essential, and it is truly amazing. Experiences like this, where Arabic music connects with other cultures, help share our art with the community and broaden our understanding,” he said.
Majed also said the collaboration inspired him to explore new creative directions in his music. The fusion of Arabic melodies and American bluegrass allowed him to experiment and create something entirely new.
Band Members Share Their Experience
Max Capistran, guitarist, banjo player, and vocalist, explained that their set included a mix of original compositions inspired by American blues, folk, and bluegrass, along with traditional bluegrass songs. They also performed creative versions of popular tracks, such as Linda Ronstadt’s “Blue Bayou”.
Capistran added that for every international performance, the band learns a piece of music from the host country. In Jeddah, they performed Nancy Ajram’s “Leilah Law Bagi Leilah”, which the band members enjoyed so much that they continued singing it long after rehearsals.
Sasha Dubyk, who plays upright bass and sings, said Arabic music and bluegrass share similar heart and soul, rooted in instrumentation and emotion. Even with short rehearsals, the music came together naturally. “It’s the power of music connecting across cultures,” she said.
Avery Ballotta, violinist and vocalist, highlighted how tradition shaped the collaboration. “Bluegrass, originating from the mountains of Appalachia, is passed down by ear in a familial and community-based way. Blending it with Arabic melodies created something new and vibrant,” she explained.
Inspiring Younger Audiences
The performance had a special impact on children in the audience. Capistran noted, “The kids were curious and excited, asking about how long we’ve been playing and how we bring music together. It’s inspiring to see two very different cultures merge instantly through music.”
Dubyk added, “Food, music, and art play a crucial role in building bridges. Music touches everyone, no matter who or where they are. Playing together allowed us to connect instantly with local musicians.”
Hayy Jameel Supports Cross-Cultural Exchange
Eiman Elnaiem, public programs manager at Art Jameel, emphasized the importance of such collaborations. “Hayy Sounds is designed to foster cross-cultural exchange. The Brooklyn-based Damn Tall Buildings and Majed Mohammed blended jazz, bluegrass, blues, folk, and classic Arabic songs, taking audiences on a journey full of energy, soul, and passion,” she said.
Elnaiem added that the audience’s reception, especially from children, was magical. “Watching them discover common ground proved that distance, language, and expression cannot limit the universality of music. Art Jameel continues to support artists from the region and beyond to grow, learn, and create meaningful connections through music.”
Audience Reactions
Zaina Ali, who attended the show with her children, said, “We enjoyed it immensely and experienced the music like never before. The energy, talent, and passion of the performers were truly inspiring. My children were so excited that by the end they were asking the band countless questions, taking pictures, and even talking about learning to play music themselves.”
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