Baklava Express is a NYC-based cross-cultural fusion project, led by award-winning composer and oud player, Josh Kaye. The band performs original music, influenced by various traditions, from Mizrahi and Sephardi folk music to the broader musical traditions of the Mediterranean and Middle East. The eclectic influences and vast differences in the musical backgrounds of its members have created a group whose style is distinct, yet genre-defiant. The band has been featured at several festivals, including the Brooklyn International Music Festival, the Greek Jewish Festival, and the Nyack Jazz Festival, and their music can be heard on the soundtrack of the short, animated film Ariel by Conor MacFinn. Baklava Express’ debut album, Dávka, was released in 2023, and their upcoming album, Sababa, is set to drop in early 2026.
Members :
Josh Kaye – Oud/Composition
Daisy Castro – Violin
Eren Erdogan – Kaval/Ney
James Robbins – Bass
Jeremy Smith – Percussion
The event is free, open to the public, and in-person, with live streaming. Watch the Livestream.