The unrivalled masters of 21st-century Turkish psych, BaBa ZuLa, return to ALICE to celebrate their 30th anniversary. Expect an audiovisual firework from start to finish as they take the stage with infectious Anatolian grooves and an eccentric live show.

When BaBa ZuLa first introduced their band to Istanbul’s rock scene in 1996, they immediately challenged every existing notion of what Turkish music could sound like. By blending oriental instruments such as electric saz, darbuka and percussion spoons with modern electronic textures, the band created a sound entirely their own—one they have since dubbed “Istanbul psychedelic.” This refreshing take on Turkish psych has also unfolded over the years in their near-ritual live performances, where the band has continuously experimented with and pushed the concert format through theatre, poetry readings, belly dancers, costumes and even live drawing.

Now, 30 years on, BaBa ZuLa are just as invigorating as when they first began. With a heavy dose of improvisation, no two concerts are ever the same—and that is precisely why audiences keep coming back for more. Over the years, the band has featured guest appearances by artists such as Alexander Hacke (Einstürzende Neubauten), Jaki Liebezeit (Can), the Turkish diva and opera singer Semiha Berksoy, as well as collaborating with ALICE-regular Mad Professor. BaBa ZuLa also have an impressive catalogue of releases on Glitterbeat Records, most recently İstanbul Sokakları (2024), which was highlighted by BBC 6’s Gilles Peterson as “an extraordinary album.” BaBa ZuLa have delivered unforgettable concerts at Roskilde Festival, Global and ALICE, and we can’t wait to welcome them back this November.

What they say about BaBa ZuLa
“Baba Zula show their love of Turkish music, from folk to wedding music, embracing it all with enthusiasm and carrying the listener with them.” – Songlines

“Overflows with Turkish psychedelia’s murky, hypnotic allure.” – Bandcamp Daily