VI.BE

Syrian violinist Shalan Alhamwy and Belgian accordionist Jonas Malfliet bring together a wide repertoire of Arabic and European folk music and inspired originals. Improvised ideas flow atop the combined Eastern and Western traditions. As they transcend borders, this duo maintains respect for tradition while adding their own unique flair.

The name Damast Duo is inspired by the luxurious textile damask (in Dutch “damast”) from Damascus, the Syrian capital. Damask spread all over the world through the trade along the silk road. This cultural crossover between East and West is what outlines Damast Duo’s music.

In 2018 the duo recorded their first album Safar, a musical journey between Syria and Belgium.