Kiri & Friends

Meet Karrar Alsaadi, a talented singer and composer from Baghdad, now based in Vienna. His music beautifully blends oriental jazz with Iraqi influences, reflecting his deep love for music since his upbringing in the vibrant soundscape of 1990s Iraq.



Karrar made history as the first Iraqi artist to collaborate with renowned musicians like Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood and Dudu Tassa on the acclaimed album "Jarak Qaribak," which was nominated for Album of the Year 2023. His dedication to pushing musical boundaries is evident in every track.



With a passion for bridging his Baghdadi roots with contemporary sounds, Karrar is a true musical innovator. His compositions breathe new life into traditional songs, honoring the past while embracing the future. Through his art, he preserves the essence of what conflict has torn apart, showcasing the transformative power of music.



With his project "Kiri & Friends" brings together musicians from diverse backgrounds, blending Iraqi Pop and world music in a dynamic musical dialogue. Oriental blues meet classical instruments like trumpet, saxophone, guitar, and violin, weaving together Arabic melodies with African rhythms. The lyrics speak of yearning for freedom and connection, inviting listeners on a journey of shared experience and emotion. Karrar's music isn't just heard; it's felt, experienced, and celebrated, bridging cultures and hearts alike.

Vocals: Karrar AlsaadiGitarre: Mahan MirarabKlarinette: Ghassan Abu HaltamDrums: Sherif AbdullahBass: Marko FerlanNai: Fadi NahasVioline: Bahador KhanzadehGeige: Farid FeyzullayevCello: Irmi WolvinKeys: Raphael Puri-Jobi