Jef Maarawi, a São Paulo native with a rich mix of Greek, Brazilian, and Syrian roots, started his musical journey in Athens at age 17. His sound—a fusion of American folk icons like Bob Dylan and Sufjan Stevens, the gritty edge of ’90s rock bands like Pixies and Nirvana, and the vibrant beats of Brazilian Tropicália legends such as Jorge Ben Jor and Caetano Veloso—sets him apart.

With three albums under the renowned Greek Inner Ear Records label, he introduced himself as Egg Hell with “Once Part of a Whole Ship” in 2014, then unveiled “Comfort Food” in 2017 and “Terra Papagalli” in 2021 as Jef Maarawi.

His latest album, “Gospel,” recorded in a mere seven days, is a raw reflection on resilience, a bittersweet farewell before relocating to Brazil. “Gospel” is influenced by the vibes of Australian artists, like Gareth Liddiard and Grace Cummings, and the soul of the ’70s Brazilian scene.

11/11/2024