El Khat

El Khat are a four piece from Tel Aviv, all with different backgrounds – Iraq, Poland, Morocco and Yemen. In reference to the addictive leaf that has been chewed socially in Yemen and the Arabic peninsula for over 600 years, the band’s choice of name can be interpreted in various ways. Yemen’s situation in 2019 is dire – in the grips of war, famine and with little sign of change from these extremeties – yet the Khat leaf provides a feeling that promotes community and relaxation, a safe and welcoming connotation.