Sufi

Sufi music, rooted in the mystical traditions of Islam, began to flourish in the Middle East around the 12th century, largely as a way to lose oneself in spiritual ecstasy whilst avoiding any semblance of actual dance moves. Characterised by repetitive rhythms, emotive vocals, and the occasional twiddle on a string instrument, it often sounds like a joyous celebration of the divine or an elaborate excuse for a singalong. Interestingly, it’s been known to inspire a level of devotion that could make even a long-lost cousin hotly debate its merits at family gatherings, proving that nothing quite bonds people like a shared love for transcendental tunes.