Dystoh featuring Guiss Guiss Bou Bess: Axé Summer WorldFest

Axé Worldfest and the National Arts Centre join forces to present the 2nd edition of Axé Summer WorldFest 2026 to celebrate global music, diversity, and culture through three unforgettable days of rhythm, connection, and world-class performances in the heart of Ottawa.

DYSTOH is a dynamic new duo from Ray Tabana and Phil Motion, founding members of the three-time Juno-nominated Souljazz Orchestra. Blending hard-hitting congas, roaring baritone sax, and tight two-part harmonies, their sound draws from the commanding and vibrant elements of Afrobeat(s), Latin and Reggae.

Born during the COVID-19 lockdown, DYSTOH debuted live at Dakar Music Expo in Senegal (2022) and has since toured Colombia, Canada and Europe. Their self-produced debut album, Heat of the Times (May 2024), bears the weight of the lockdown's isolation while offering a subtle, raw and poetic personal reflection on global unrest in a fast-paced, shifting world.

Standout tracks and videos like All My Life and Days Go By highlight the best of their hypnotic grooves and polyrhythmic arrangements as these two artists swap lead vocal roles. After 20 years touring internationally with the Souljazz Orchestra, the duo now takes the stage, bringing forth their palpable high-energy sound that speaks to the duo's rich history as touring artists and seasoned live performers.

A powerful, urban sound is emerging from Dakar. Guiss Guiss Bou Bess is a trio formed in 2016 by singer, slammer, and percussionist Mara Seck, and French beat-maker Stéphane Costantini. In 2023, Papa Assane Samba, a master of the sabar, joined the duo. On stage, the artists mix electronic music with various aspects of Senegalese cultural identity: dance, percussion, costumes, and spirituality. At the heart of this clever fusion shines the sabar, the emblematic percussion instrument and complex rhythms of Senegal.

Axé Summer WorldFest July 16, 17 & 18, 2026 – 2nd edition

Thursday, July 16, 2026 7:30 pm Yeison Landero, the heir of cumbia direct from Colombia, and special guest Lady La Profeta at the Wooden Terrace NAC. FREE. Co-presented by the Embassy of Colombia in Ottawa

Friday, July 17 2026, 7:30 pm Dystoh (Ottawa) featuring Guiss Guiss Bou Bess from Senegal/France - Fourth Stage

Saturday, July 18, 2026 7:30 pm JØY Brandt (Toronto) featuring Suraras do Tapajós from Brazil - Fourth Stage. Co-presented by Saravah

Each musical act promises a one-of-a-kind experience, uniting diverse musical traditions to create a truly unforgettable experience.