June 12 & 19, 2024, 7 PM
Free Music Workshops
Study World Rhythms and All Styles of Guitar
A series of free introductory in-person music workshops at the Cloverdale Arts Alliance taught by guitarist and Ancient Future bandleader Matthew Montfort starts with two 45 minute guitar workshops on June 12, 2024, and finishes with a one hour world rhythms workshop on June 19, 2024. After the series is complete, ongoing classes will be offered tailored to the individual goals of workshop participants.
Cloverdale Arts Alliance, 204 N. Cloverdale Boulevard, Cloverdale, CA 95425
Sign up: lessons@matthewmontfort.com.
Matthew Montfort Bio
Hi-Res Photo (300 dpi, 5" x 3"): http://www.ancient-future.com/images/yearningmatt300dpi5x3.jpg
Matthew Montfort is known as a world guitar innovator and an inspiring music instructor who helps students of all levels and ages learn whatever style they desire. He is on the 100 Greatest Acoustic Guitarists list at DigitalDreamDoor.com along with such luminaries as Michael Hedges, Leo Kottke, Chet Atkins, John Fahey, Adrian Legg, Merle Travis, John Renbourn, Tommy Emmanuel, Doc Watson, Pierre Bensusan, Toni Rice, Alex Grassi, Stefan Grossman, Artie Traum, Joni Mitchell, and Peppino D'Agostino. He is the leader of the world music group Ancient Future and performs on many instruments, including scalloped fretboard guitar, Glissentar 11 string fretless guitar, electric guitar, classical guitar, flamenco guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, sitar, charango, mandolin, and gamelan.
Montfort wrote the book Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali, and India, which has been used at many music schools including the Berklee College of Music. Matthew Montfort was on the faculty of the Blue Bear School of Music in San Francisco for three decades where he taught rock, folk, jazz, blues, classical guitar, music theory, and world music. He teaches all styles of guitar, ukulele, bass, charango, sitar, and mandolin as well as music theory for all instruments and rhythm classes based on his book.
Guitar Workshops
Poster (658k .pdf): https://www.ancient-future.com/pdf/gtrworkshop.pdf
Free In-Person Beginning and Intermediate Guitar Workshops
Cloverdale Arts Alliance, 204 N. Cloverdale Boulevard, Cloverdale, CA 95425
Sign up: lessons@matthewmontfort.com
Beginning Guitar
Wednesday, June 12, 2024, 7 to 7:45 PM
This free 45 minute introductory beginning workshop can help aspiring guitarists get started on the right track with good practice habits.
Intermediate Guitar
Wednesday, June 12, 2024, 7:45 to 8:30 PM
This free 45 minute workshop explores exercises, music notation, theory, and popular repertoire.
World Rhythms Workshop
Poster (565k .pdf)
https://www.ancient-future.com/pdf/gtrworkshop.pdf
Got Rhythm? Get the Beats of Africa, Bali, and India
Free 60 Minute In-Person Workshop
Juneteenth, Wednesday, June 19, 2024, 7 to 8 PM
Cloverdale Arts Alliance, 204 N. Cloverdale Boulevard, Cloverdale, CA 95425
Sign up: lessons@matthewmontfort.com
Coming soon: West African rhythm workshop, Balinese gamelan workshop, Indian tala workshop (all 90 minutes)
This workshop is a wonderful way to improve timing skills. Matthew Montfort's book, Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India, is the basis for this world music workshop and has been used by many teachers and musicians around the world, including Reinhard Flatischler, founder of the TaKeTiNa rhythm training process, and Steve Smith, famed rock and jazz drummer.
This free introductory workshop is presented in an easy to follow, entertaining yet educational format for all music lovers. African polyrhythms, Balinese kotèkan and Indian classical music were chosen as the source material for the training because these three traditions in combination cover the major types of rhythmic organization used in most of the world's music.
Not just for percussionists, this workshop can help any musician, singer, dancer, or music lover improve their rhythmic skills. No musical background is required. Very simple to play percussion instruments will be provided, and participants are free to bring an instrument.
Additional 90 minute workshops each focusing on a single musical tradition will be be offered in the coming months.
Rhythm Training Materials
Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India by Matthew Montfort. Book/Enhanced Audio CD Set with MIDI Soundfiles: $52.95 (SALE! Normally $69.95): http://www.ancient-future.com/atfp.html
"You've heard Afro-Pop, sitar, gamelan and world music for years. But do you know what they are and how they work? Better yet, would you like to play those twisted cross-rhythms and melodies? In Ancient Traditions--Future Possibilities, Matthew Montfort, a founding member of the world music band Ancient Future, has put together the book for people who want to dig into world music with both hands. The first section of the book covers traditional music of West Africa, Bali and India with theories and exercises. Wherever possible, Montfort has provided beat counts alongside the standard musical notation so even if you can't read music, you can still learn the rhythms. The last section of the book mixes patterns from different cultures, demonstrating the powerful music these simple exercises can generate." – Richard Kadrey, SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE
Global Guitar Summit at S.F. International Arts Fest Featuring Matthew Montfort and Teja Gerken
This Global Guitar Summit presents two international acoustic guitar virtuosos who will perform solo and ensemble pieces: American scalloped fretboard guitar and world fusion music pioneer Matthew Montfort, German fingerstyle guitarist extraordinaire Teja Gerken. The music performed will include new arrangements of classical works, Celtic music, Indian classical, contemporary compositions, popular songs, and much more. The Global Guitar Summit was first formed by Gerken and Montfort in 2016 as a forum to present guitar round robins.
Matthew Montfort released his first solo recording, Seven Serenades for Scalloped Fretboard Guitar, in 2009. He is a pioneer among guitarists who have had their fretboards scalloped in order to play various forms of world music that require intricate note-bending ornaments while still being able to play chords. Montfort immersed himself in an intensive study with vina master K.S. Subramanian in order to fully apply the South Indian gamaka (note-bending) techniques to the guitar. He is recognized as one of the world's 100 Greatest Acoustic Guitarists by DigitalDreamDoor.com, a curated "best of" site, along with such luminaries as Michael Hedges, Leo Kottke, Chet Atkins, John Fahey, Merle Travis, John Renbourn, Tommy Emmanuel, Doc Watson, Pierre Bensusan, Alex De Grassi, and Peppino D'Agostino. The December 2009 Les Paul issue of Guitar Player Magazine includes a full page feature on Matthew Montfort with a corresponding GuitarPlayer.Com video and lesson entitled "The Music of Jimi Hendrix Applied to Indian Raga."
German-born Teja Gerken is a contemporary steel-string fingerstyle guitarist whose playing merges the styles of European guitar pioneers such as John Renbourn and Pierre Bensusan with the distinct sounds of American players such as Leo Kottke and Michael Hedges. Known for his original compositions, many of which employ alternate tunings, two-handed tapping, percussive effects, and other extended guitar techniques, Teja will also bring Celtic, jazz, and classical styles to the Global Guitar Summit. Teja recently released his third solo album, "Test of Time," which Acoustic Guitar magazine calls "A sonic marvel from top to bottom."
"Releasing his second CD, Postcards, is San Francisco area fingerstyle guitarist Teja Gerken, who delivers solo instrumental compositions with enough surprises and innovative twists to delight aficionados of the world music and folk genres. His tunes employ physical techniques such as two-handed tapping, alternate tunings, and percussive effects, but his developed sense of melody is what will keep his CD playing in your mind long after the 'stop' button is pressed. Another impressive feature is that Gerken's playing is captured without overdubs; the intricate arrangements delivered as you might hear the artist in concert. Gerken is one of a rare breed - a guitarist's guitarist with equal appeal for the non-musicians out there. His Postcards album is highly recommended." – GUITAR9.COM
Learn World Rhythms and All Styles of Guitar
To celebrate moving Ancient Future Studios to Sonoma County, a series of free introductory in person music workshops is being offered at the Cloverdale Arts Alliance in Northern Sonoma County. For those not in Northern California, a separate set of free workshops will be held online.
Cloverdale Arts Alliance, 204 N. Cloverdale Boulevard, Cloverdale, CA 95425. Introductory workshops: FREE. Ongoing classes: $150 for six more weeks. Sign up: info@cloverdaleartsalliance.org. Online versions sign up: info@ancient-future.com.
Matthew Montfort Bio
Matthew Montfort is known as a world guitar innovator and an inspiring music instructor who helps students of all levels and ages learn whatever style they desire. He is on the 100 Greatest Acoustic Guitarists list at DigitalDreamDoor.com along with such luminaries as Michael Hedges, Leo Kottke, Chet Atkins, John Fahey, Adrian Legg, Merle Travis, John Renbourn, Tommy Emmanuel, Doc Watson, Pierre Bensusan, Toni Rice, Alex Grassi, Stefan Grossman, Artie Traum, Joni Mitchell, and Peppino D'Agostino. He is the leader of the world music group Ancient Future and performs on many instruments, including scalloped fretboard guitar, Glissentar 11 string fretless guitar, electric guitar, classical guitar, flamenco guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, sitar, charango, mandolin, and gamelan.
Montfort wrote the book Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali, and India, which has been used at many music schools including the Berklee College of Music. Matthew Montfort was on the faculty of the Blue Bear School of Music in San Francisco for three decades where he taught rock, folk, jazz, blues, classical guitar, music theory, and world music. He teaches all styles of guitar, ukulele, bass, charango, sitar, and mandolin as well as music theory for all instruments and rhythm classes based on his book.
Guitar Classes
Beginning Guitar
Wednesday, February 21, 2024, 7 to 7:45 PM
This free introductory beginning workshop can help aspiring guitarists get started on the right track with good practice habits. An ongoing class is available and will cover basics and feature simple pieces chosen according to the musical preferences of the students. For those who don't have a guitar yet, a few electric and acoustic guitars are available with the purchase of an initial set of private lessons.
Music Theory on the Fretboard
Wednesday, February 28, 2024, 7:00 to 7:45 PM
This free introductory workshop opens the door to exploring music theory on the guitar fretboard. A six week course follows covering notes up the fretboard on each string, keys, intervals, modes, and chord construction.
Have Fun Learning to Read Music by Studying Classical Guitar Technique
Rise Above Reliance on TAB!
Wednesday, February 28, 2024, 7:45 to 8:30 PM
Guitarists are often good at reading TAB, but poor at reading sheet music. This class gets students started learning to read standard music notation, while at the same time introducing foundational classical guitar technique that can be applied to other styles of playing. Students learn simple etudes and classical pieces that are great for boosting fingerstyle skills while actually bringing fun to learning to read music!
World Rhythms
Got Rhythm? Get the Beats of Africa, Bali, and India
Wednesday, March 6, 2024, 7 to 7:45 PM
This workshop is a wonderful way to improve timing skills. Matthew Montfort's book, Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India, is the basis for this world music workshop and has been used by many teachers and musicians around the world, including Reinhard Flatischler, founder of the TaKeTiNa rhythm training process, and Steve Smith, famed rock and jazz drummer.
The workshop is presented in an easy to follow, entertaining yet educational format for all music lovers. African polyrhythms, Balinese kotèkan and Indian classical music were chosen as the source material for the training because these three traditions in combination cover the major types of rhythmic organization used in most of the world's music. Not just for musicians and percussionists, this training can help anyone with a desire to improve their rhythm skills. The workshop is open to all levels, and no musical background is required. Very simple to play percussion instruments will be provided, and participants are free to bring any percussive instrument they enjoy playing.
Rhythm Training Materials
Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities
Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India by Matthew Montfort. Book/Enhanced Audio CD Set with MIDI Soundfiles: $52.95 (SALE! Normally $69.95): Buy Link: https://www.ancient-future.com/atfp.html
"You've heard Afro-Pop, sitar, gamelan and world music for years. But do you know what they are and how they work? Better yet, would you like to play those twisted cross-rhythms and melodies? In Ancient Traditions--Future Possibilities, Matthew Montfort, a founding member of the world music band Ancient Future, has put together the book for people who want to dig into world music with both hands. The first section of the book covers traditional music of West Africa, Bali and India with theories and exercises. Wherever possible, Montfort has provided beat counts alongside the standard musical notation so even if you can't read music, you can still learn the rhythms. The last section of the book mixes patterns from different cultures, demonstrating the powerful music these simple exercises can generate." – Richard Kadrey, SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE
https://ethnocloud.com/Matthew_Montfort/?y_video=14646&b=943
Reading, Rhythm, and Raga: Take a Break from Election Coverage with Matthew Montfort's Masterclasses
November 2020 Issue:
Reading, Rhythm, and Raga
•Take a Break from Election Coverage with Matthew Montfort's Masterclasses
http://ancient-future.com/newsnov2020.html#workshop
Vote to Help Ancient Future Play Here Somehow
•Alternate Reality Concerts from the Ancient Future?
http://ancient-future.com/newsnov2020.html#coronavirus
Private Online Music Lessons
•Winter Bloom on Zoom
http://ancient-future.com/newsnov2020.html#lessons
Matthew Montfort's Masterclasses Return to Blue Bear School of Music Online
Matthew Montfort taught music at the Blue Bear School of Music for over two decades. This fall, he returns to teach three virtual masterclasses!
https://bluebearmusic.org/classes/online-rhythm-training/
1. Learn to Read Music by Studying Classical Guitar Technique
Rise Above Reliance on TAB!
November 3 to December 8, 2020, Tuesdays from 8:30 to 9:30 PM, Have Fun Learning to Read Music through Classical Guitar Technique, Blue Bear School of Music Online. Guitarists are often good at reading TAB, but poor at reading sheet music. This six week class by Matthew Montfort will get you started learning to read standard music notation, while at the same time introducing foundational classical guitar technique that you can also apply to other styles of playing. You'll learn simple etudes and classical pieces, great for boosting your fingerstyle skills while actually having fun learning to read music!
Tuition: $160.
Tix: https://bluebearmusic.org/classes/online-rhythm-training/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/375544510493414/
2. Got Rhythm?
World Beat Workshop Returns to Blue Bear Online
November 4 to December 9, 2020, Wednesdays from 7:30 PM to 8:45 PM, World Beat Workshop, Blue Bear School of Music Online. Matthew Montfort’s Got Rhythm? six week workshop is presented in an easy to follow, entertaining, yet educational format for all music lovers. African polyrhythms, Balinese kotèkan and Indian classical music are presented because these traditions cover the major types of rhythmic organization used in most of the world's music. This training from Montfort's book Ancient Traditions -- Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India can help anyone with a desire to improve their rhythmic skills.
Tuition: $200.
Tix: https://bluebearmusic.org/classes/online-rhythm-training/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1293998794277679/
Get Rhythm!
Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India by Matthew Montfort.
Info: http://www.ancient-future.com/atfp.html
This classic "world beat bible" by Matthew Montfort takes the student on a musical voyage through the ancient rhythmic traditions of Africa, Bali, and India with a series of exercises that require no instruments to perform. Interesting, imaginative and fun, these rhythm exercises will be of immense help to all music lovers, not just percussionists. The new downloadable companion set of MP3 audio guide and MIDI groove tracks of the exercises in the book is set up for playback on Mac and PC computers, tablets, and smartphones.
3. Indian Raga for Western Musicians
Improve Your Improvisation Skills Through Melodic Training
November 5 to December 17, 2020, Thursdays from 6:15 to 7:30 PM, Indian Raga for Western Musicians, Blue Bear School of Music Online. This six week masterclass by world fusion pioneer Matthew Montfort will help you improve your soloing in any music genre from rock to jazz to free improv through melodic training. Learn the emotional power of each interval and how to construct meaningful melodies through the tradition of Indian raga. Open to all instruments and voice.
Tuition: $200.
Tix: https://bluebearmusic.org/classes/online-rhythm-training/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1166034547144381/
Ancient Future Times: 2020 Vision
December 2019 Issue:
2020 Vision
•Ways to Help the World Fusion Movement Reduce Polarization
'Till 2020 Sale
•Recordings, Music Eduction, and Musical Scavenger Hunt
Global Guitar Summit
•12/6/19, Wu Wei Tea Temple, Fairfax
2020 Vision
In this age of polarization, world fusion music is needed now more than ever. You can help our "fun raising" efforts to support Ancient Future's local Northern California concert season, provide seed money to bring Ancient Future to perform in your area, or support new compositions and recordings:
- Make a Tax Deductible Donation. Ancient Future was accepted for fiscal sponsorship with InterMusic SF, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, and now donations made through them on behalf of Ancient Future are 100% tax deductible to the full extent of the law!
Fun Raising A.F.A.R. Past the Finish LineThe Archive of Future Ancient Recordings, Ancient Future's fun fan funded recording project, has over 86 minutes of music in it so far. Another set of studio tracks that will expand the project by over 50% are already in production.
Hundreds and hundreds of hours have already gone into the composition, rehearsal, pre-production, and recording the guitar and bansuri flute tracks for Beyond Kalyan, a new piece by Matthew Montfort based on Rag Kalyan. At around 30 minutes long, it is a very expansive, emotional, and difficult to perform piece. Mindia Devi spent several weeks practicing her bansuri flute parts, and all of the composed sections and most of her improvised solos have been recorded. The next step will recording Vishal Nagar's tabla tracks.
It's time for some "fun raising" to fund payments to master musicians so that they can carve out time to practice their parts and record them. We have raised 22% of our funding goal so far. This is substantial, but averages just a little more than 2% per year, so we need to greatly speed up our fun raising to complete the project.
Please consider becoming a supporter at one of the levels below, starting at just $15. And if you are already a supporter, you can still upgrade to higher quality downloads until each supporter level is sold out. Once you become a supporter, you will receive all of the tracks in the archive (and all of the tracks that will be added in the future), and you will be eligible to buy a limited edition CD-R of the Best of A.F.A.R. So Far, which is includes all of the best tracks that will (barely) fit on a CD-R.
The Archive of Future Ancient Recordings by Ancient Future. (Ancient-Future.Com Records AF-2030)
- Recording Newsletter-$15 (receive 128 kbps downloads): Subscribe @ $15.
- Download Supporter- $25 (320 kbps downloads): Subscribe @ $25.
- Limited Edition CD Sponsor- $50 (all previous plus CD quality audio): Subscribe @ $50.
- Honorary A & R Representative- $75 (all previous plus video and 24 bit audio): Subscribe @ $75.
- Donor VIP- $??: Make Additional Donation.
- A.F.A.R. So Far CD-R- $20 Additional. (SALE $15): Buy CD-R Now.
Streaming payments to artists are absurdly low, and the switch from music ownership to ad supported streaming has greatly harmed artists' ability to create new work. But there are even more problems with streaming. The algorithms are set up to suggest artists who sound like the music that the listener is already listening to. So, how are people to find out about new directions in music or music from other cultures?
After you support the artists you enjoy by purchasing their work (FUN raise A.F.A.R.), you can help to support musical diversity by making and sharing your own playlists of Ancient Future with your favorite artists from different genres. This can help to expand people's awareness, rather than narrow it. Right now, due to heavily weighted major label playlists featuring Ancient Future with New Age artists popular in the 80's, Ancient Future is predominantly suggested by streaming services to fans of New Age music. This is very limiting for the world fusion music movement. Fans of New Age music have often enjoyed world fusion music, especially the slower tempo pieces. But this isn't helping the world fusion music movement to reach people who need to be turned on to more diverse music.
Apple MusicStream Ancient Future on Apple Music
If the above link doesn't work, search for Ancient Future directly in Apple Music. Apple doesn't have an ad supported tier, so it pays the most per stream of the major streaming companies at 65/100 of a penny net to Ancient-Future.Com Records, but that's nowhere near a sustainable payment that can support the creation of new recordings. It's much better to buy the downloads while you still can. Apple does allow you to make and share playlists. Please make public playlists with diverse artists and share them.
How to Make an Apple Music Playlist
SpotifyStream Ancient Future on Spotify
Spotify pays a lower streaming rate than Apple, but higher than YouTube. It is still extremely low, especially for the ad supported tier, where a stream nets Ancient-Future.Com Records only 17/100 of a penny, while the subscription tier nets 36/100 of a penny. All users of Spotify can create playlists.
How to Make a Spotify Playlist
Spotify playlists featuring Ancient Future with appropriate artists can be found at WorldFusionMusicRadio.Com.
PandoraStream Ancient Future on Pandora
Pandora pays less per stream than Spotify on its free radio format, but more than Spotify on its subscription tier. Ancient-Future.Com Records nets 8/100 of a cent per stream on Pandora radio playlists, and 41/100 of a cent for Pandora Premium. The free version of Pandora doesn't allow user playlist creation, but you can thumbs up and down tracks. The Ancient Future station on Pandora is populated almost exclusively with tracks by artists with no world music influences at all. Please thumbs down those selections. If you hear Ancient Future on any Pandora station, please thumb it up so that more people find out about world fusion music. If you are a Pandora Premium user, you can create playlists.
How to Make a Pandora Playlist
YouTubeWatch Ancient Future on YouTube
Stream Ancient Future on YouTube Music
YouTube Music pays the lowest of all major music streaming services. For example, 1,708,584 streams of a track by Ancient Future on our own label on YouTube's ad supported service overseas netted Ancient Future only $101.16. That's less than 6/1000 of a cent per stream! Yes, thousandths of a cent! If this had not been on our own label, the artist share would have been even less. This is a travesty. Perhaps it is best to listen to YouTube Music with the sound off. Their subscription tier nets Ancient-Future.Com Records 65/100 of a cent, which is on par with Apple Music, but less than 0.02% of the reported streams in 2019 were in the subscription tier, so the higher rate is just a PR stunt at this point. YouTube Music is available in more countries than Spotify and all users of YouTube can create playlists, so for the time being we are encouraging the creation of YouTube playlists to share with users in countries where Spotify isn't available. Just remember to do your own listening on other services.
How to Make a YouTube Playlist
'Till 2020 SaleRecordings, Music Education, and Musical Scavenger Hunt
Purchases at the Ancient-Future.Com World Music Store directly support the artists and the music, and this sale offers bargain prices until 2020!
Five for Fifty: Five Releases Just $10 Each
- Yearning for the Wind by Ancient Future (Ancient-Future.Com Records AF-20302). Signed Audio/Video E-CD-R- List $17.98. (SALE $10): Buy 1 Now.
- Planet Passion by Ancient Future( Ancient-Future.Com Records AF-2010). CD- List $17.98. (SALE $10): Buy 1 Now.
- Sangria by Mariah Parker (Ancient-Future.Com Records AF-2017). CD- List $17.98.(SALE $10): Buy 1 Now.
- Seven Serenades for Scalloped Fretboard Guitar by Matthew Montfort (Ancient-Future.Com Records AF-2008). CD- List $17.98. (SALE $10): Buy 1 Now.
- Sympathetic Serenade by Matthew Montfort (Ancient-Future.Com Records AF-2012). Signed EP CD-R- List $12.98.(SALE $10): Buy 1 Now.
World Music Studies for Listeners and Musicians!Want to get more out of listening to music? Study of music traditions isn't just for musicians. For example, many listeners are attracted to the spiritual feeling of Indian classical music. But knowing the basics of tala (Indian rhythm cycles) will greatly enhance what one experiences while listening.
A great way to get started on a journey to become a better listener is to visit the education section of Ancient-Future.Com. Included are explanations of African, Arabic, Balinese, and Indian traditions along with some basic exercises to practice that require no instruments to perform. Your site surfing can even win prizes in this issue's Musical Scavenger Hunt! And as you learn more, you may wish to take a private Skype lesson to continue your studies.
Beats Book Brings Bang for the Buck
Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India by Matthew Montfort (Kentfield: Ancient Future Music, 1985. ISBN 0-937879-00-2).
- Comb Bound Book- $46.95 (SALE $33.95): Buy 1 Now.
- Book and Enhanced Audio CD Set with MIDI Files- $74.95 (SALE $53.95): Buy 1 Now.
- Book & Audio Guide/MIDI Download (New Best Buy!)- $69.95 (SALE $49.95): Buy 1 Now.
- Companion MP3/MIDI Guide Tracks Download Set (New Release!)- $34.95 (SALE 24.95): Buy 1 Now.
- Companion Audio/MIDI Guide Tracks 2 Volume CD/CD-ROM Set- $39.95 (SALE $29.95): Buy 1 Now.
This classic "world beat bible" by Matthew Montfort takes the student on a musical voyage through the ancient rhythmic traditions of Africa, Bali, and India with a series of exercises that require no instruments to perform. Interesting, imaginative and fun, these rhythm exercises will be of immense help to all music lovers, not just percussionists.
The new downloadable companion set of MP3 audio guide and MIDI groove tracks of the exercises in the book Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities is set up for playback on Mac and PC computers, tablets, and smartphones. The tracks are also available on a CD/CD-ROM set. The material is presented in two complimentary formats: audio guide tracks and MIDI groove tracks.
Digital Liner Note Discounts
- Yearning for the Wind Digital Liner Notes. Download- $1.98 list (SALE $1.50): Buy 1 Now. 7 page .pdf of liner notes for Yearning for the Wind by Ancient Future. Features detailed explanations of the musical concepts of raga and tala behind the music.
- Seven Serenades for Scalloped Fretboard Guitar Digital Liner Notes. Download- $2.98 list. (SALE $2): Buy 1 Now.17 page .pdf of liner notes for Seven Serenades for Scalloped Fretboard Guitar by Matthew Montfort. Explains the inspirations and musical concepts behind each serenade. Sheet music is included for those who want to delve deeper.
Study any of the musical traditions featured on the Ancient Future web site via private Skype lessons with Ancient Future bandleader and guitarist, Matthew Montfort. Recognized as one of the world's 100 Greatest Acoustic Guitarists, Matthew Montfort teaches all styles of guitar (and other fretted instruments including ukulele, bass, mandolin, charango, and sitar) along with record production, composition, world rhythms, music theory, and repertoire for all instruments.
Skype Lessons- 60 Minute Lesson- $75. (SALE $60): Buy 1 Now. Custom private one hour online lesson.
- 45 Minute Lesson- $65. (SALE $48): Buy 1 Now. Custom private 45 minute online lesson.
- 30 Minute Lesson- $50. (SALE $36): Buy 1 Now. Custom private 30 minute online lesson.
Gift certificates are available for online lessons worldwide via Skype and other webcam conferencing services. And for a limited time, an additional discount is automatically offered on a Skype tutorial with purchase of Matthew Montfort's book Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali, and India at Ancient-Future.Com!
Musical Scavenger Hunt
Hunt through Ancient-Future.Com to answer the scavenger hunt questions. All of those who get any answer right win an educational digital liner note download of their choice! Get all of the answers right and also win your choice of the Audio Guide or MIDI Groove companion tracks to the world rhythms training manual, Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities.
3 Scavenger Hunt Questions- Name six instruments utilized in an Eve percussion orchestra.
- What is the name of the more offbeat part of a Balinese kotèkan?
- What is the name of an 11 beat North Indian rhythmic cycle that includes two groupings of 1 1/2 beats?
This scavenger hunt contest is open only to subscribers to the Ancient Future Times. If you are not already receiving this newsletter, please subscribe before entering. Entries accepted through January 1, 2020. Send entries to info@ancient-future.com.
Global Guitar Summit
Friday, December 6, 8 PM
Global Guitar Summit
Wu Wei Tea Temple
1820 Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
Fairfax, CA 94930
No cover. Suggested donation: $10 - $20.
Info: wuweiteatemple.com
Facebook Event
Ancient Future leader and guitarist Matthew Montfort and German fingerstyle guitarist extraordinaire Teja Gerken return to the Wu Wei Tea Temple in Fairfax for an evening of music from around the world.
Matthew Montfort is a pioneer among guitarists who have had their fretboards scalloped in order to play various forms of world music that require intricate note-bending ornaments while still being able to play chords.
Teja Gerken is known for his original compositions, many of which employ alternate tunings and two-handed tapping. His playing merges the styles of European guitar pioneers such as John Renbourn and Pierre Bensusan with the distinct sounds of American players such as Leo Kottke and Michael Hedges.
Issue 16. Summer 2018:
In this issue:
Arabic Rhythms
Rhythm in Arabic music is organized into cycles of beats and pauses. Each cycle consists of a fixed number of metric pulses, including a hierarchy of strong beats, weak beats, and silent beats that define a groove. In performance some of the rests or silent beats may be filled in, but the underlying feel is maintained. The sounding beats vary in timbre and are described with onomatopoeic syllables. The strong beat is described using the syllable "dum" for the heavy low-pitched center sound of the drum. The weak is represented by the word "tek" for the bright, high-pitched edge or side sound of the drum and is not necessarily less loud than the strong beat. In some ways, it shares a similar feeling to the off-beat in Western music.
Chiftitelli
Chiftitelli is the Turkish word for belly dancing. It is an 8 beat rhythm with 3-3-2 accent pattern in the first four beats that is very popular with belly dancers.
1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + | 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + |
dum tek tek tek tek dum dum tek
1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2
Elzaffa is a musical procession. The main pattern is 8 beats long.
1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + | 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + |
dum tek ka tek tek dum tek tek (tek ka)
dum (right hand clear low tone)
tek (right hand high crisp tone)
ka (left hand, sounds like tek)
After studying the traditional rhythm, check out Ancient Future's performance of Matthew Montfort's world fusion composition in this rhythmic mode, "El Zaffa."
'El Zaffa' YouTube Video URL: https://youtu.be/mHle2ipjQsU
El Zaffa 4:26 (Matthew Montfort. © 2001 Ancient Future Music). iTunes. >YTmusic. Full version/best audio quality appears on Planet Passion (Ancient-Future.Com AF-2010) CD, $17.98 (SALE $10!): Buy CD Now.
Ancient Future Live
Concert Poster (259k pdf)
This program blends the rhythms and melodies of the Arabian Peninsula with contemporary jazz and rock, producing an irresistible and exhilarating fusion that captures the essence of pilgrimage, cultural exchange, exploration and migration. Ancient Future's performance features world guitar pioneer Matthew Montfort, Arabic violin virtuoso Georges Lammam, Arabic percussion master Antoine Lammam, and keyboardist extraordinaire Doug McKeehan. These multifaceted artists create an innovative musical experience that guides listeners on a hypnotic voyage through time and place.
Saturday, July 28, 8 PM
Throckmorton Theatre
142 Throckmorton Avenue
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Doors open at 7:30 PM
Adm: $20 adv, $25 at door, $35 reserved seating
Tix: tickets.throckmortontheatre.org
Event: throckmortontheatre.org/event/ancient-future/
Info: 415-383-9600
Facebook Event
Listen on Spotify
Sunday, August 4, 8:30 PM (SOLD OUT!)
UCO Lick Observatory Benefit
Main Building Hall
Mount Hamilton, CA 95140
Adm: $45 general seating, $90 preferred, $199 VIP
"Woe, is for all of you who missed the Ancient Future event sponsored by Rhythm & Bliss. The group Ancient Future is made up of Musical Masters in their genres. The band consists of 24 musicians that come together in different configurations and create fused music. This configuration was an Arabic/Rock fusion. I have no words to describe what it is to hear live musical virtuosos. After hearing and dancing to this quality of music nothing else stirs my soul the same way. It was truly a grand evening. I was so very glad to have been there." – Mary Wheeler, The Harrakat, Eugene, Oregon
Musical Scavenger Hunt Contest
13 Ways to Win
Participate in this educational scavenger hunt to win music education materials and learn about the ancient musical traditions of the world! Hunt through Ancient-Future.Com to answer the scavenger hunt questions. All of those who get any answer right win an educational digital liner note download of their choice! Get all of the answers right and also win your choice of the Audio Guide or MIDI Groove companion tracks to the world rhythms training manual, Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities.
Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali and India. By Matthew Montfort. Kentfield: Ancient Future Music, 1985. ISBN 0-937879-00-2. Comb Bound Book- $46.95 (SALE $33.95): Buy 1 Now. New Best Buy! Book & Audio Guide/MIDI Download- $69.95 (SALE $49.95): Buy 1 Now.
Not just for percussionists, this classic "world beat bible" takes the student on a musical voyage through the ancient rhythmic traditions of Africa, Bali, and India with a series of interesting, imaginative and fun exercises for all music lovers that require no instruments to perform.
13 Scavenger Hunt Questions- What rhythm was used as the basis for the fast section of the title track from the Ancient Future album Quiet Fire?
- Name six instruments utilized in an Eve percussion orchestra.
- What is the name of the more offbeat part of a Balinese kotèkan?
- What rhythm was used as the basis for the composition "Gamarock" from the Ancient Future album Dreamchaser?
- What is the name of an 11 beat North Indian rhythmic cycle that includes two groupings of 1 1/2 beats?
- What is the name of a common South Indian 8 beat rhythmic cycle?
- What is the name of the Egyptian wedding procession rhythm that is the basis for a popular Ancient Future track?
- What moods are associated with Rag Alhaiya Bilawal?
- What is the name of the second, higher part of a North Indian melodic composition?
- How many sympathetic strings does a North Indian sitar typically have?
- What are the three main schools of scalloped fretboard guitar?
- What instrument was traditionally made from the shell of an armadillo?
- Name two subjects available for study through private online lessons via Skype and other services through Ancient-Future.Com.
This scavenger hunt contest is open only to subscribers to the Ancient Future Times. If you are not already receiving this newsletter, please subscribe before entering. Entries accepted through August 13, 2018. Send entries to info@ancient-future.com.
Scavenger Hunt PrizesAudio Guide Tracks
Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: MP3 Audio Guide Tracks. By Matthew Montfort. Ancient Future Music (2005). New Release! Companion MP3 Audio Guide Tracks Download- $24.95 (SALE 17.95): Buy 1 Now.
A set of 115 audio guide tracks of the exercises in Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities that enable learning by ear.
MIDI Groove TracksAncient Rhythms – Future Grooves: MIDI Percussion Groove Tracks from the Traditions of Africa, Bali, and India. Version 4.0. By Matthew Montfort. Ancient Future Music (1997. V. 4.0 2017). New Release! MIDI File Download- $24.95 (SALE 17.95): Buy 1 Now.
A complete set of 128 MIDI tracks that playback in Standard MIDI File compatible web browsers. For greater control or for use as rhythm tracks in audio productions, load them into a MIDI sequencer app (Mac, PC, iOS, Android, etc.) to loop tracks, change the tempo, or listen to individual parts. The files come arranged for General MIDI percussion and can be remapped to other instruments using the included MIDI maps.
Digital Liner Notes
Educational Digital Liner Notes. 17 page .pdf of liner notes for Seven Serenades for Scalloped Fretboard Guitar by Matthew Montfort. Explains the inspirations and musical concepts behind each serenade. Sheet music is included for those who want to delve deeper. $2.98 (SALE $2): Buy 1 Now.
Educational Digital Liner Notes. 7 page .pdf of liner notes for Yearning for the Wind by Ancient Future. These entertaining and educational liner notes feature cover art, musicians biographies, and detailed explanations of the musical concepts of raga and tala behind the music. $1.98 (SALE $1.50): Buy 1 Now.
Educational Digital Liner Notes. 11 page .pdf of liner notes for Planet Passion by Ancient Future. The liner notes are a digital version of the cover art and comprehensive CD booklet, which details a mythical story of love through the musical traditions of the world. $1.98 (SALE $1.50): Buy 1 Now.
World Music Lessons Via Skype
Now you can study any of the subjects on the education section of Ancient-Future.Com through private correspondence lessons (via Skype or any method of file exchange) with Ancient Future bandleader and guitarist, Matthew Montfort. Feel free to email info@ancient-future.com with any questions you may have about how correspondence lessons can help you in your musical development!
© 2018 Ancient Future Music. All rights reserved.
Konarak Reddy, Matthew Montfort, and Teja Gerken Hi-Res Photo (1.9 MB):
www.ancient-future.com/images/konarak_matthew_teja300dpi5x7.jpg
Sunday, July 31, 6:30 PM - 9 PM
Fenix
919 Fourth Street
San Rafael, CA 94901
Tix: $12 advance, $15 door. For advance tix and reservations, visit www.fenixlive.com/dining/reservations, call 415-813-5600 or email info@www.fenixlive.com
Venue website: www.fenixlive.com
Thursday, August 4, 2016, 7:30 PM
Don Quixote's International Music Hall
6275 Highway 9
Felton, CA 95018
Tix: $12 advance, $15 door. Info: Call 831-603-2294 or email tmm@cruzio.com
Venue website: www.donquixotesmusic.info
Saturday, August 6th, 6:30 PM
Gryphon Stringed Instruments
211 Lambert Ave.
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Tix: $20 suggested donation. Info: Call 650-493-2131 or email michael@gryphonstrings.com
Venue website: www.gryphonstrings.com
Friday, August 12th, 8 PM
Sebastopol Community Center Annex
425 Morris St.
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Tix: $20 advance, $23 door. For advance tix and reservations, call Kevin at 707-824-1858 or email krussellmft@aol.com
Venue website: www.seb.org
This Global Guitar Summit presents three international acoustic guitar virtuosos who will perform solo and ensemble pieces. The summit features Indian nylon string guitarist Konarak Reddy, American scalloped fretboard and fretless guitar pioneer Matthew Montfort, and German fingerstyle guitarist Teja Gerken.
Poster (100 k .pdf): www.ancient-future.com/pdf/pdf/global_guitar_summit2016poster.pdf
Konarak Reddy
Konarak Reddy Hi-Res Photo (682 k):
www.ancient-future.com/images/konarak300dpi5x3.jpg
Hailing from Bangalore, India, Konarak Reddy is a legend among music aficionados in his home country. From the start, Konarak drew his inspiration from multiple sources, immersing himself in both Western classical theory on guitar and traditional Indian music on the sarod, which he studied with Gurus Debi Prasad Ghosh and Rajeev Taranath. Konarak later studied jazz improvisation at Boston's Berklee College of Music and the Musician's Institute in Hollywood, from which he graduated with honors. Today, his playing integrates Hindustani and Carnatic styles into contemporary solo guitar masterpieces, which frequently include live looping. Konarak was featured in a TEDx talk in 2013 (www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0ZP-hG7CN4), he frequently performs in Europe, and his own World Guitar Night, which has become an annual event in Bangalore, and featured international guitarists such as Andy McKee, Don Ross, Kevin Eubanks, Peter Sprague, Peter Finger, and others. His two albums, Searching for the Goddess and Solar Avatar have received critical acclaim. For more info, please visit www.konarak-reddy.blogspot.com.
VideoKonarak Reddy performing live in Budapest:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DMYe5YHq6U
"He is known as one of India's most versatile guitarists. For over 35 years he's absolutely ruled the roost. Konarak Reddy has needed no introduction." - BANGALORE MIRROR BUREAU
Matthew Montfort
Matthew Montfort Hi-Res Photo by Julie Marten (2 MB):
www.ancient-future.com/images/matthewmontfort600.jpg
Matthew Montfort is the leader of the world music ensemble Ancient Future. Featured in the December 2009 commemorative Les Paul issue of Guitar Player Magazine, Montfort is a pioneer among guitarists who have had their fretboards scalloped in order to play various forms of world music that require intricate note-bending ornaments while still being able to play chords. Montfort immersed himself in an intensive study with vina master K.S. Subramanian in order to fully apply the South Indian gamaka (note-bending) techniques to the guitar. He has released two solo CDs: Seven Serenades for Scalloped Fretboard Guitar and Sympathetic Serenade, for which he is recognized as one of the world's 100 Greatest Acoustic Guitarists by DigitalDreamDoor.com , a curated "best of" site, along with such luminaries as Michael Hedges, Leo Kottke, Chet Atkins, John Fahey, Adrian Legg, Merle Travis, John Renbourn, Tommy Emmanuel, Doc Watson, Pierre Bensusan, Toni Rice, Alex De Grassi, Stefan Grossman, Artie Traum, Joni Mitchell, and Peppino D'Agostino. He is also known for his work on Glissentar (11 string fretless guitar), electric guitar, flamenco guitar, sitar, charango, mandolin, and gamelan. He has performed concerts worldwide, from the Festival Internacional de la Guitarra on the golden coast of Spain to the Festival of India in Mumbai. He has worked with many world music legends, including tabla phenomenon Zakir Hussain and Chinese zither master Zhao Hui. Montfort wrote the book Ancient Traditions – Future Possibilities: Rhythmic Training Through the Traditions of Africa, Bali, and India, which has been used by many musicians to improve their rhythm skills. For more info, please visit www.matthewmontfort.com.
VideoMatthew Montfort performing 'Soul Serenade' at Ancient Future's 30th Anniversary Concert:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLfKTbpgO1Q
5 Page Guitar Player Magazine/GuitarPlayer.com Media Report (1.4 MB):
www.ancient-future.com/pdf/MatthewMontfortGuitarPlayerMag.pdf
"Because Montfort’s guitar has a scalloped fretboard, his fingers touch only the strings, enabling him to produce ornaments more characteristic of the sitar. This album reveals a thorough knowledge of Hindustani microtonal ornaments, transferred in ways that create one of the most distinctive guitar sounds in contemporary music. However, it also reveals a lifetime of exploration in world music, which can be immediately summoned in a flash of inspiration. When this level of mastery is reached, there is no need to rewrite. The first improvisation has the depth of a reworked composition." – Teed Rockwell, INDIA CURRENTS, March 2009
Teja Gerken
Teja Gerken Hi-Res Photo (1 MB):
www.tejagerken.com/High_Res_Images/teja_color2.jpeg
More Hi-Res Photos:
www.tejagerken.com/photos/
German-born Teja Gerken is a contemporary steel-string fingerstyle guitarist whose playing merges the styles of European guitar pioneers such as John Renbourn and Pierre Bensusan with the distinct sounds of American players such as Leo Kottke and Micheal Hedges. Known for his original compositions, many of which employ alternate tunings, two-handed tapping, percussive effects, and other extended guitar techniques, Teja will also bring Celtic, jazz, and classical styles to the Global Guitars show. For more info, please visit www.tejagerken.com.
VideoTeja Gerken performing "1948" live:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7khy_8uhCA
"Releasing his second CD, Postcards, is San Francisco area fingerstyle guitarist Teja Gerken, who delivers solo instrumental compositions with enough surprises and innovative twists to delight aficionados of the world music and folk genres. His tunes employ physical techniques such as two-handed tapping, alternate tunings, and percussive effects, but his developed sense of melody is what will keep his CD playing in your mind long after the 'stop' button is pressed. Another impressive feature is that Gerken's playing is captured without overdubs; the intricate arrangements delivered as you might hear the artist in concert. Gerken is one of a rare breed - a guitarist's guitarist with equal appeal for the non-musicians out there. His Postcards album is highly recommended." – GUITAR9.COM
Ancient Future 'World Without Walls' Reunion Concert to Stream Live on ConcertWindow.com October 16 at 8 PM PDT
In a first for Ancient Future, their upcoming 'World Without Walls' reunion concert at the Freight & Salvage will be available for viewing anywhere in the world as a live stream. This is a very rare chance for Ancient Future fans worldwide to view a live concert of the exact lineup of the pioneering world music group that performed on Ancient Future's influential World Without Walls andAsian Fusion recordings. They will perform their fourth reunion concert after a 15 year hiatus on Wednesday, October 16, at 8 PM at the Freight and Salvage, located at 2020 Addison Street in Berkeley.
Online tickets are available now for $5 at concertwindow.com/shows/ancient-future. The webshow will not be archived – it's offered only in real time starting at 8 PM Pacific Daylight Time on October 16. It is recommended to purchase a ticket in advance to sign up for an email reminder to tune in for the show at the correct time. ConcertWindow.com includes a show time count-down clock, or a site such as timezoneconverter.com can be used to calculate the local time the concert will begin streaming. For example, for music fans in Mumbai, India, the concert stream will begin at 8:30 AM on October 17.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013, 8 PM PDT
Streaming Live at ConcertWindow.com
Freight and Salvage
2020 Addison Street, Berkeley, CA 94704
Tix: $18.50 in advance, $20.50 at the door, or $5 for live stream at concertwindow.com/shows/ancient-future.
Info: Call 510-644-2020 or email info@freightandsalvage.org
Facebook Event.
Live Medley of 'Alap' and 'Indra's Net' Recorded at Yoshi's, San Francisco, 6/7/11
To celebrate Ancient Future's first worldwide live streaming video concert, a live video recording of a medley of Matthew Montfort's 'Alap' and Jim Hurley's 'Indra's Net' composition is being released, available for viewing at http://youtu.be/fCVQZLBS43c. Inspired by Hindu mythology, 'Indra's Net' was used as a soundtrack for a United Nations documentary film, Closing the Curtains of Death, about drift net fishing. This version was recorded at Yoshi's San Francisco on June 7, 2011, the day of their first performance together in 15 years. The video features Doug McKeehan on piano, Kash Killion on bass, Ian Dogole on percussion, Matthew Montfort on scalloped fretboard guitar, Jim Hurley on violin, and Patti Weiss on violin. 'Indra's Net' is the third video to be released from the reunion concert, joining '14 Steps' by Matthew Montfort (http://youtu.be/Ro0VAo7a9BY) and 'Turkish Taffy' by Doug McKeehan (http://youtu.be/e0YyuM7YTIo).
'World Without Walls' by Ancient Future on Capitol Records
Hi-Res Square Cover Art (3 MB)
(Sona Gaia/MCA 163): CD - $24.98 (collectable signed copy): Buy Link. >audio.
Press Audio Downloads: Lakshmi Rocks Me (Jim Hurley) MP3 (excerpt, 976k). >audio.
14 Steps (Matthew Montfort) MP3 (excerpt, 1 MB). >audio.
As its name suggests, World Without Walls depicts a musical world without borders. Originally released in 1990, it features performances by such world music luminaries as Zakir Hussain, the master of the North Indian tabla. World Without Walls was reissued digitally by Capitol Records in 2011 to honor Ancient Future's reunion concerts. In 2012, broadcasters worldwide voted the reissue as one of the top 5 world music releases of the year, 22 years after its initial release. The inviting melodies and ingenious use of ethnic textures make this recording one of Ancient Future's most accessible and broadly appealing releases ever.
Tabla master Zakir Hussain
Sepia photo for print (14.7" x 9.7" sepia jpg, 7.2 MB). Ancient Future circa 1990. Photo by Irene Young. Pictured: Matthew Montfort (guitars), Jim Hurley (violin), Doug McKeehan (keys), Ian Dogole (percussion).
BILLBOARD calls the group "trendsetters" for contributing to the emerging movement known as world fusion music, a term Ancient Future leader Matthew Montfort coined at the band’s inception for music that blends musical ideas from many different cultures. Formed in 1978, Ancient Future is the world's first and longest running ensemble dedicated exclusively to the mission of the creation of world fusion music. Their original music is an exhilarating fusion of exciting rhythms and sounds from around the globe that combines contemporary jazz and rock with the irresistible rhythms of African, Balinese, Indian, Middle Eastern and South American percussion, the rich harmonies of Europe, and the beautiful melodies of Asia.
In the years since the initial CD release of World Without Walls, Ancient Future has expanded from its core lineup through collaborations with noted masters of various world music traditions who are now an integral part of what is today more than just a band. Ancient Future has grown to become a large chamber ensemble of more than thirty performers from around the world with over a dozen smaller ensembles within it, enabling Ancient Future to realize its core mission of creating world fusion music.
Quotes
World Without Walls Media Report (13.9 MB)
Below are just a few of the rave reviews for the reissue of World Without Walls:
"Bloody hell, get me some Alzheimer's drugs, will you? Ancient Future was on Narada's Sona Gaia subsidiary with a world beat album that was ahead of it's time and they were hanging out with Zappa's world beat buddies and I don't remember any of it? Each track has a different taste and a different texture making this a world beat travelogue that gleefully genre bends whatever the crew felt like with a merger of hillbilly and Indian music, the sound of an African traffic jam and more stuff that tastes good without the over riding vibe of being good for you. And it's not empty calories either. No wonder the group labored so long and so hard to get Capitol to reissue this, it's time. More bloody hell, new copies of this are going for over $200 on Amazon! How did I miss this? This is the world beat/jazz/pop album for people that shy away from things called world beat and jazz. Fun stuff throughout that still sounds fresh and in the moment today." - Chris Spector, MIDWEST RECORD (July 2011)
"21 years after the release of the already classic 'World Without Walls,' the original lineup of 'Ancient Future' reunited in a series of shows at Yoshi's in SF. On this occasion Capitol/EMI Records launched the first digital version of this influential album that marked not just the career of the band and its members but represents a reference of the World Music phenomenon. The original album released in 1990 features 10 songs that mix Oriental, Celtic and African inspired rhythms with modern jazzy beats, and subdued lyricism with melodic creativity. As the title of the album suggests there's no walls between musical influences but we can say that there's no wall between these virtuoso performers, whose joyful interplay delights the listener with a fusion of exotic and western harmonies that sound like chamber music. The three composers of the album (Jim Hurley on violin, Matthew Montfort guitars, Doug McKeehan piano, synthesizers) looked for inspiration to ancient lands of musical tradition, bringing the African, Balinese, Chinese, Indian, Middle eastern sounds into a modern setting that preserves their original savor. It is a surprising and enchanting synthesis of classical, modern and exotic crafted with the art of a jeweler. Talking drum, bells, chimes, dumbek, udu, bass drums, sleigh bells and tabla (played by Zakir Hussain on 3 songs) keep the rhythm alive and fresh, while organically blending into the compositions. An album that is also inviting to listen more from what this legendary band has produced over the years." - Stephen Bocioaca, WORLD JAZZ NEWS (July 2011)
"Ancient Future is a well known group inside the interesting world of the World Fusion Music (or World Music with fusions of many other styles). It is a group with a perfect fit of traditional instruments (flutes, percussion of different parts of the world, violin, etc) with others more associated with rock (bass and electric guitar, synthesizers...) and is made up of musicians who are capable of playing them all, which opens up many possibilities. The band was originally formed in 1978, with what at present is one of the most long-lived formations that has been dedicated exclusively to World Music, a genre (or perhaps an assembly of genres) that is very common at present, but that was not the case at end of the 70's. Ever since their beginnings they have mixed diverse forms of music, originating from Africa, Bali, the India, the Near East, South America, Europe and Asia in general. 'World Without Walls' was originally released in 1990, but is now being re-issued, principally for Internet distribution. The 10 themes they composed gravitate between African and Asian ethnic rhythms and melodies adorned with a lot of Hindu sounds and wrapped, as is the usual custom in Ancient Future, with sounds of multiple instruments that move the disk towards rock or jazz in certain moments (such as guitars, piano and synthesizers). The Hindu influence is especially present due to the contribution of Indian percussionist Zakir Hussain. Hussain is a musician of great prestige inside the musical circle of the members of Ancient Future, so his percussive embellishments fit perfectly with World Without Walls. Zakir Hussain participates in the pieces entitled 'Lakshmi Rocks Me,' '14 Steps,' and 'Gopi Song.' 'World Without Walls' has a very appropriate title. Music is, without doubt, an authentic universal language and Ancient Future shows it, by mixing in such a stunning manner so many styles that appear antagonistic, that nevertheless, they insert perfectly upon filtration through the group's sieve ." - Jorge Sergio Iglesias, Articmist.org, (Aug 2011)
"Sona Gaia and Narada were two of the more interesting World/New Age labels to erupt as the arts scene began diversifying with a seriousness that arose following the collapse of the 60s/70s ethos. Narada was a sketchy proposition at times, tending to the New Agier side of the house, whereas Sona always held a more serious attitude, and one of their best releases—this one, Ancient Future's World Without Walls—was never quite critiqued or marketed as it should have been: as a set of works in the tradition of Mahavishnu Orchestra, Between, Shakti, and other adventurous bands with almost inhuman chops. After all, the entire World gig pretty much rooted in the inestimably superlative Oregon, an ensemble that was and still is eons ahead of its time, talented beyond compare. Thus, those who came after should have been of-a-kind and acclaimed as such, right? Ah, but then the micky-marketeers entered, and what should've been a quantum leap became, well, Private Music, Steven Halpern, and Georgia Kelley, alas… although, in Shadowfax and others, the path was never quite erased. Well, now that everyone has sobered up and finds him- and herself able to ponder backwards, a few gems are being rescued. This re-release very much demonstrates that we missed quite a bit, even though Matthew Montfort continued his musical evolution and the band itself realigned for a dazzling concert last June (go tohttp://www.youtube.com/ancientfuture and click on 14 Steps for a marvelous example). Along with Montfort came Ian Dogole, Doug McKeehan, and Jim Hurley, masters of their instruments, and the quartet played and still plays as though it were twice that size, complicated narrative and rhythms filling each track. 'World Without Walls' is drenched with the most enticing and hypnotic of essences, a record that, despite the passage of 21 years since its debut, cannot age, a document upholding a spirit of creativity ahead of its time hundreds of years ago and remaining so in the hands of masters such as these. Thank goodness some things never change." - Mark S. Tucker, FOLK & ACOUSTIC MUSIC EXCHANGE (Sept 2011)
"When one listens to the melodies and musical textures of the fifth release 'World Without Walls' by the group Ancient Future, words like exotic, elegant and sublime immediately come to mind. Check out the group on YouTube and see if you are not drawn into their hypnotic enchantment. Ancient Future offers a musical vision of a 'world without walls' which is both appealing and accessible to the average listener and is highly recommended for anyone wishing to explore the amazing genre of World music." - Jack Montgomery, Amplifier, BOWLING GREEN DAILY NEWS (Sept 2011)
"It's hard to remember — with the plethora of World Fusion albums currently available — a time when this sort of music was the new kid on the block. This classic album by Ancient Future was a breath of fresh air at the time of its release in 1990. With inspired skill and a great respect for the other cultures from which they took much of their inspiration, the band blended western music with that of pretty much every other continent, weaving magic with their melodies and rhythms. And you know what? 'World Without Walls' sounds as fresh and invigorating today as it did all those years ago upon its initial release. There's not a single bad moment on the album." - Charles de Lint, SleepingHedgehog.com (Nov 2011)
"Not insipid easy-listening 'World Music', 'World Without Walls' is a remastered re-release of their 1990 classic, and doesn't sound dated at all. 'World Without Walls' is a fusion of musical stylings, scales and rhythms from around the world. The main influences I hear are Middle Eastern, Indian and South American, though there's also Jamaican 'Island Music' sounds, Balinese and probably dozens of other influences too subtle for me to notice. The instruments run the gamut of acoustic instruments like violins, piano, tuned percussion instruments and tablas (by renowned master Zakir Hussain) and also electric guitar synths and synthesizers. Leader Matthew Montfort plays (along with other guitars) a unique scalloped-fretboard acoustic guitar which allows for subtle pitch-bending and timbre-modulation effects. A careful listen will reveal that this is way beyond the usual health-food store 'World Music' offerings and is instead a high-energy, very experimental fusion of styles from around the world. Highly recommended." - Fred Trafton, GILBRALTAR ENCYCLOPEDIA OF PROGRESSIVE ROCK (Nov 2011)
