Bassel & The Supernaturals

730pm doors / 830pm show - $10

Syrian Heart. Midwest Soul.

Bassel & The Supernaturals tells the story of Bassel Almadani's experience as a first generation Syrian-American using soulful melodies, funk inspired rhythms, and captivating lyrics regarding love, loss, otherness, and the war in Syria. They made their national television debut in May 2024 as part of a new PBS docuseries starring Dule Hill entitled The Express Way, regarding the transformative power of the arts.

Echoing Stevie Wonder’s rhythm and blues, Jamiroquai’s social justice centered lyricism over jazz-infused funk, and Steely Dan’s seamless amalgam of American music, Bassel & The Supernaturals evoke joy and thoughtfulness in diverse audiences throughout hundreds of cities across North America. In addition to performing in major festivals, performance halls, concert series, and clubs, the group works closely with organizations on events and residencies that build awareness and empathy for Syrian refugees and immigrants. Deeply inspired by Otis Redding, Bassel uses the stage as a vehicle to unite his listeners and share the story of his cultural duality. A substantial portion of their proceeds benefit the Karam Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on building a better future for Syria.

In the band's national television debut, PBS selected Bassel & The Supernaturals to represent Chicago in the season finale of The Express Way with Dulé Hill (May 2024). The episode highlights Bassel's story as a product of Syrian immigrants, challenges growing up as a Muslim in America after 9/11, and his profound connection to the arts as a channel to process his own experience while amplifying the voices of refugees.