Born in Tunis and trained in piano from an early age, Wajdi Riahi quickly
discovered music as a universal language. The Wajdi Riahi Trio was formed around him, with Basile Rahola on double
bass and Pierre Hurty on drums. With Wajdi on piano, they have built a
strong identity, combining finesse and energy, which they now bring to
international stages. Together, they have found a rare balance: constant
mutual listening, deep friendship, and musical complicity that give their
trio a unique intensity. With two acclaimed albums already to their credit—
Mhamdeya and Essia—the group has found its place on European stages,
offering refined and vibrant music, nourished by their multiple roots and
shared energy.
Last year marked a turning point: more than 50 concerts took Essia
around the world (Montreal International Jazz Festival, Jazz des 5
Continents in Marseille, Nancy Jazz Pulsation, Natt Jazz in Norway,
Ultramar Club and Canarias Jazz y Mas in Spain, Flagey in Brussels, Jazz à
Liège, Jazz Cave in Romania, etc.).
Everywhere, the reception was enthusiastic, both from the public and the
press. Belgian and French critics praised the freshness and depth of this
music, which captivates as much by its lyrical intensity as by its
generosity on stage. And always, on stage, there is a rare alchemy between
the musicians that makes you want to come back again and again.
It was in this vibrant context that their new project was born: a live album.
For the first time, the trio's music will also be released on vinyl, a precious
and durable medium that reflects their desire to preserve a record of these
shared moments. The album brings together a selection of tracks from
Mhamdeya and Essia, revisited after dozens of concerts, enriched by
experience, refined by time. Because music lives, transforms, and each
interpretation carries the memory of the paths traveled. Added to this
repertoire are two new tracks, reflecting the trio's constant evolution and
desire to reinvent themselves.
This adventure took shape thanks to the Flak label and its Zabonprés
Sessions series, dedicated to recording intimate concerts in a unique
setting. The trio had the opportunity to play in front of around forty
people, in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, in a small venue with a warm
atmosphere, surrounded by forests and light. Three days of residency,
punctuated by rehearsals, exchanges, and communal living, captured
much more than just a concert: a collective breath, a rare intensity, music
rooted as much in the moment as in the deep friendship that unites the
three musicians.
One thing leads to another...
With this new album, the Wajdi Riahi Trio invites us to share an important
milestone in its journey: music in motion, shaped by time, travel, and
above all, friendship.
- Released : 14/11/2025
- Recorded : 26/06/2025
- Supports : CD, LP
- Sound engineer : Emre Gültekin
- Label : Flak Records
