Omar Souleyman speaks to us about his year so far ahead of Simple Things 2017 performance

The Björk and Four Tet collaborator will be playing on our stage in the Colston Hall Foyer, which we're immeasurably stoked about - the likes of Diet Cig, Richard Russell (XL Recordings), and Japanese Breakfast are also on the bill. Find out more.

Souleyman, now signed to Diplo's Mad Decent label, plays the festival ahead of the physical release of latest LP To Syria, With Love, which was released digitally over the summer to significant acclaim. Check it out below and read our chat with Souleyman afterwards.

BEST FIT: Can you tell us a bit about To Syria, With Love?
Omar Souleyman: Well, it’s my newest record and it has many beautiful songs that I love. I made it with my favourite keyboard player to date - Hasan Alo - and the sound is perfect; I like very much the mixes and they are better than I ever had until now.

The physical release is coming soon - do you have any plans to celebrate that?
​Omar: Oh, for me it released some months ago but again is always good. No I don’t have any plans for that.

How has being with Mad Decent changed things?

​Omar: It is another label and my management deals with those things. I like all the people I met from the label when I was in Los Angeles. It is all very well.

How do you feel about the album now that it's been out a few months? What did you make of the reaction?
​Omar: Honestly, I don’t pay much attention to that. I see people are looking at the new videos a lot and I am glad for it.

What's been the highlight of the year so far for you?
​Omar: This year, as any year, has been full of excitement and very good concerts and parties and lot of travel. My son’s wedding should have to be the highlight - yes.

Do you have a favorite song on the new album to play live?
​Omar: From the new album songs - I think I do maybe one or two live these days. "Ya Bnayya" is a song that many people seem to like a lot - so I sing it for them.

What should we expect from your Simple Things show?
​Omar: As from all my show, great party, lots of dancing and a very good time.

Do you have any plans for the rest of the year?
​Omar: I am travelling a lot and have a lot of concerts planned.