Les Arrivants (the Arrivals), consisting of Amichai Ben Shalev, Abdul-Wahab Kayyali, and Hamin Honari, settled in Montreal during the COVID-19 pandemic between the summers of 2019 and 2020. Through this unique period, they met and explored their new hometown amidst lockdowns and uncertainties. Their repertoire reflects their resettlement experience, drawing inspiration from the traditions they mastered throughout their careers, including Argentine tango, classical Arabic music, and traditional Persian rhythms. Their music captures the highs and lows of resettlement, expressing nostalgia, the search for new comforts, and the complex emotions associated with migration.

Amichai Ben Shalev (Bandoneon): With a degree from the “Manuel de Falla” Conservatory of Buenos Aires, Amichai has performed worldwide as a soloist, from classical to heavy metal compositions, and notably premiered works by Rodolfo Daluisio. He’s also known for Bandoneon TV, dedicated to bandoneon studies.

Abdul-Wahab Kayyali (Oud): Abdul-Wahab studied at the National Music Conservatory of Amman, Jordan, under Sakher Hattar and Iraqi oud virtuoso Munir Bashir. He’s performed internationally and released his debut solo album “Juthoor” in 2020, establishing projects like Juthoor and Etihad Middle Eastern Music Salon.

Hamin Honari (Persian hand drums), a Persian percussionist and composer born in Zahedan, Iran in 1983, comes from a family of musicians. He began his musical journey studying the tombak under Ramin Bahrami, eventually delving into various rhythms and styles. Embracing Vancouver’s music scene, he collaborated with diverse ensembles and musicians, infusing traditional Persian techniques with jazz and classical influences.

(source: https://www.lesarrivants.com/about)