S.I.M.O X Hippo Sound System & DJ Hiphoppapotamus @ The Magic Garden

Introducing a brand-new live/electronic Gnawa collaboration for 2026 from S.I.M.O &

Hippo Sound System. This project fuses Simo’s deep-rooted Gnawa traditions with the

high-energy, improvisational dance-floor power of Hippo Sound System. It's a vibrant

collision of Gnawa rhythms with afrobeat, broken beat, house, techno, dub, DnB and

global electronic flavours—a powerful, dance-led journey that stays true to its cultural

roots while pushing boldly into new sonic territory.

Simo Lagnawi (Electric Jalaba / Gnawa Blues All Stars) leads with his soulful vocals,

powerful messages and guembri grooves, while Theodore Blackburn (Munki / Hippo

Sound System) drives the rhythm section on drums and percussion. And laying the

foundation on the Pioneer DJS-1000, Tristan Shaw (DJ Hiphoppapotamus / Hippo

Sound System) sequences and manipulates beats, bass and textures entirely live,

injecting spontaneous energy into every performance!

Though no strangers to major festival stages, this is the first time these three artists bring

this explosive collaboration on tour. Buckle up and be among the first to experience a

boundary-pushing live show where tradition and forward-thinking electronic energy

collide on the dance floor.

Then straight back up on the decks is the man/hippo himself, DJ Hiphoppapotamus! This DJ/producer has created his own unique party vibe by infusing Afro, Latin and Caribbean music into his tastefully produced selections of Breaks, House, Drum & Bass/Jungle and Hiphop, resulting in pure feel-good sunshine party music designed to move your feet uplift your soul.