The world's roadmap suggests that a return to live music is on the horizon for perhaps another half a decade. Last Monday night, however, it looked—and sounded—like it has already arrived.
Live music is back and bigger than ever. JBM Studio's Jam Before Midnight pilot event was another testament to the growing hunger for local music served hot on a platinum platter. And it was served perfectly.
"We see the community of artists and musicians specifically in Dubai and the UAE growing more and more," says JBM Studio CEO and Co-Founder Benjamin Monié. The once sporadic sparks of cultural nightlife are becoming brighter by the day. "We see the cultural scene in full development, we understand that people are seeking unique cultural experiences," adds Ben.
Brothers Ben and Julien have had a love for music since they were DJs back in their teens traveling the world. Since then, the duo's trail revolved around sound—right to the center of their entrepreneurial quests. "We cherish those moments of being in that moment when the music clicks, the vibe is right and for some reason, this energy creates a sense of belonging and comfort that has no words." To Ben, it was all about the pure and real experience. "A jam session for us is about connecting and finding that universal language that resonates in everyone's heart and soul," he explains.
"A jam session for us is about connecting and finding that universal language that resonates in everyone's heart and soul,"
What seemed like an experimental project now etched its fingerprint in the tapestry of the local music vibe. "We want to create more fusion." As a cosmopolitan city, Dubai is at the forefront as a connecting point between the East and West and musically there is a plethora of cultural depth and musical richness. "I think we are at a time where the music scene in the Middle East is starting to reach further than its geographical footprint," Ben says. "And we aim to create a new genre that will bridge the cultures even further.
Consistency is key. JBM positions itself "so that the community of music lovers and people who want to share these moments have a space to share them." "Our studio is like a home for the artists and this is where passion and love for the art come first before anything," he explains.
Building new relationships, connecting and integrating musical styles percolated in one night. "We saw it already yesterday- it’s simmering and the recipe is coming together nicely. Sorry, that’s my French food-loving side kicking in," he laughs.
Seasoned singer-songwriter Layla Kardan opened the jam sessions and never ceased to capture the audience with her captivating voice. Being good friends, Layla and the brothers met and conversed about cooking up a "right mix of people" to devise a genuine, and original encounter around it. "We knew the what, how and who would be best to bring as a first," he says about Layla headlining the pilot episode. "Now, we need to push and continue to build on this," the founder hopes.
The Jam Before Midnight sessions will surely return 'Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger'. "We want a variety - we need true musicians that can jam or improvise. We don’t want cover songs or existing pieces performed—we need this to be organic," he concludes.
An official sign-up process will be in place to give artists the chance to have a piece of the pie.
Follow JBM Studio for future announcements.
