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William (Billy) Denk is a guitarist, synthesist, and composer. Billy’s recent focus has been to fuse elements of jazz, ambient, electronic, electro-acoustic into a collection of experimental avant garde recordings and performances. What I hear is a fresh blending of sustained gossamer tones beaming in the darkness, bringing a soft, tender, and romantic feeling. There is no hurry, I am floating and blissful, I hear pianos and woodwinds within the synthesizers.
Billy has been moving naturally into a more introspective phase of composing, and by redefining his path from jazz to ambient, we are able to perceive both distinct genres in new ways and to then realize that enjoying good music is what counts, not fitting into genres. Billy has been building a freewheeling, multi-faceted resume in Chicago jazz circles, playing a fusion of jazz, funk, Latin, rock and experimental music, with recordings starting in 2012. He has performed with Glazz Ensemble, Phil Ciancio, Ian Hall, John Weber Trio, Chris Greene Quartet, and Paul Abella Trio in addition to hosting concerts with his own trio and performing solo compositions.
What Billy brings with his new sound is his secret longtime passion for minimalist ambient music, a seasoned jazz player’s feeling for elements of structure, a sense of adventure and curiosity, and glimpses within the veils, layers of veils. I clearly hear a powerful blend of moods masterfully expressed via a fusion of ambient guitar, synth, electro-acoustic and organic sounds, using a combination of the Ableton Live digital audio workstation and a variety of synthesizers and effects pedals.
Looking at the sound, Billy reflects, “We can’t define what we see without the contrast between darkness and light.” In Praise of Shadows is inspired by and named after an essay on Japanese aesthetics by author and novelist Jun’ichiro Tanizaki, first published in 1933 and in English in 1977. Comparisons of light with darkness are used to contrast Western and Asian cultures. From “The Sun Was Shining” to “Unto This Light” and “Reflections in Darkness,” the eight tracks capture Billy’s various impressions of the theme.
The artist traces his inspiration in this genre back to the classic ‘80s-’90s Windham Hill vibe, legendary bands like Pink Floyd and Tangerine Dream, influential ambient/electronic pioneer Steve Roach and other genre artists like Kevin Braheny and Hearts of Space artist Bill Douglas. Jeff Beck has always been a major inspiration too.
In 2019, after several decades as one of Chicagoland’s most renowned and versatile jazz guitarists, Billy made a creative shift in his recording career to begin exploring his longtime passion for minimalist ambient music. Engaging his talents as a composer and synthesist, he launched a prolific series of recordings, starting with the auspiciously titled Positive Space and Starbound, whose focal single “Solar Wind” has been a top streamer and featured track on Journeyscapes, a popular ambient electronic radio show.
Receiving his first acoustic guitar at age nine, Billy performed in folk and rock groups in high school while also playing clarinet in the school band. As he became more fluent playing jazz guitar, Billy started a regular jam session in nearby Woodstock, IL that evolved into the organization Jazz on the Square, which promoted jazz performance and education in the community. This included an annual jazz festival featuring predominantly Chicago-based jazz musicians, including Tim Fitzgerald, Chris Greene, Frank Russell, Outcast Jazz Band, and others. He also hosted the Northern Sky Jazz Show on Harvard Community Radio 101.3 FM, which featured music and interviews with musicians from Chicago and nationwide.
In this era, Billy released a total of five recordings — Soul Immersion (2019), Connection (2020), Introverse (2021), Blue Lotus Dream (2021) and Night Songs (2022). “In Fairness to You” is the first single off his next album In Praise of Shadows, which fuses elements of ambient, electronic, electro-acoustic, and jazz. This new track, “In Fairness to You” is now available on Bandcamp, and the album In Praise of Shadows will be available later this Spring.
“Both as a jazz musician and now as a composer and producer of ambient recordings, I feel that I have the depth and maturity to create music that resonates with people, that has something significant to say and shares heartfelt emotions that others can connect with,” Billy reflects. “I have been moving naturally into a more introspective phase of my composing, and it contrasts with some of the previous works that had more of a feeling of positivity and lightness, infused with repetitive sequencer-created patterns. I’ve always been interested in aesthetics and design, so the themes of Tanizaki’s book struck a chord and led to some interesting sonic explorations. The idea behind In Praise of Shadows is that we can’t define what we see without the contrast between darkness and light.”
Watch the minimalistic video: https://youtu.be/3i0gm7QbCTQ
Billy’s indie label Waltzing Square Recording is releasing the album, distributed worldwide by OneRPM. Music and production by Billy Denk. Art direction by Beau Skaronea & Erin Denk. Artwork by Billy Denk.
https://billydenkmusic.bandcamp.com/
Visit his official website at http://www.billydenk.com
The space between illumination and shadow reveals the shape, texture, and depth of our being…
Billy has been moving naturally into a more introspective phase of composing, and by redefining his path from jazz to ambient, we are able to perceive both distinct genres in new ways and to then realize that enjoying good music is what counts, not fitting into genres. Billy has been building a freewheeling, multi-faceted resume in Chicago jazz circles, playing a fusion of jazz, funk, Latin, rock and experimental music, with recordings starting in 2012. He has performed with Glazz Ensemble, Phil Ciancio, Ian Hall, John Weber Trio, Chris Greene Quartet, and Paul Abella Trio in addition to hosting concerts with his own trio and performing solo compositions.
What Billy brings with his new sound is his secret longtime passion for minimalist ambient music, a seasoned jazz player’s feeling for elements of structure, a sense of adventure and curiosity, and glimpses within the veils, layers of veils. I clearly hear a powerful blend of moods masterfully expressed via a fusion of ambient guitar, synth, electro-acoustic and organic sounds, using a combination of the Ableton Live digital audio workstation and a variety of synthesizers and effects pedals.
Looking at the sound, Billy reflects, “We can’t define what we see without the contrast between darkness and light.” In Praise of Shadows is inspired by and named after an essay on Japanese aesthetics by author and novelist Jun’ichiro Tanizaki, first published in 1933 and in English in 1977. Comparisons of light with darkness are used to contrast Western and Asian cultures. From “The Sun Was Shining” to “Unto This Light” and “Reflections in Darkness,” the eight tracks capture Billy’s various impressions of the theme.
The artist traces his inspiration in this genre back to the classic ‘80s-’90s Windham Hill vibe, legendary bands like Pink Floyd and Tangerine Dream, influential ambient/electronic pioneer Steve Roach and other genre artists like Kevin Braheny and Hearts of Space artist Bill Douglas. Jeff Beck has always been a major inspiration too.
In 2019, after several decades as one of Chicagoland’s most renowned and versatile jazz guitarists, Billy made a creative shift in his recording career to begin exploring his longtime passion for minimalist ambient music. Engaging his talents as a composer and synthesist, he launched a prolific series of recordings, starting with the auspiciously titled Positive Space and Starbound, whose focal single “Solar Wind” has been a top streamer and featured track on Journeyscapes, a popular ambient electronic radio show.
Receiving his first acoustic guitar at age nine, Billy performed in folk and rock groups in high school while also playing clarinet in the school band. As he became more fluent playing jazz guitar, Billy started a regular jam session in nearby Woodstock, IL that evolved into the organization Jazz on the Square, which promoted jazz performance and education in the community. This included an annual jazz festival featuring predominantly Chicago-based jazz musicians, including Tim Fitzgerald, Chris Greene, Frank Russell, Outcast Jazz Band, and others. He also hosted the Northern Sky Jazz Show on Harvard Community Radio 101.3 FM, which featured music and interviews with musicians from Chicago and nationwide.
In this era, Billy released a total of five recordings — Soul Immersion (2019), Connection (2020), Introverse (2021), Blue Lotus Dream (2021) and Night Songs (2022). “In Fairness to You” is the first single off his next album In Praise of Shadows, which fuses elements of ambient, electronic, electro-acoustic, and jazz. This new track, “In Fairness to You” is now available on Bandcamp, and the album In Praise of Shadows will be available later this Spring.
“Both as a jazz musician and now as a composer and producer of ambient recordings, I feel that I have the depth and maturity to create music that resonates with people, that has something significant to say and shares heartfelt emotions that others can connect with,” Billy reflects. “I have been moving naturally into a more introspective phase of my composing, and it contrasts with some of the previous works that had more of a feeling of positivity and lightness, infused with repetitive sequencer-created patterns. I’ve always been interested in aesthetics and design, so the themes of Tanizaki’s book struck a chord and led to some interesting sonic explorations. The idea behind In Praise of Shadows is that we can’t define what we see without the contrast between darkness and light.”
Watch the minimalistic video: https://youtu.be/3i0gm7QbCTQ
Billy’s indie label Waltzing Square Recording is releasing the album, distributed worldwide by OneRPM. Music and production by Billy Denk. Art direction by Beau Skaronea & Erin Denk. Artwork by Billy Denk.
https://billydenkmusic.bandcamp.com/
Visit his official website at http://www.billydenk.com
The space between illumination and shadow reveals the shape, texture, and depth of our being…
Imagine that matter is vibration and the cosmos is sound. Mantras are prayers that harmoniously vibrate with the universe. On this newest track from Indian Trap, titled “Durga Mantra (Om Katyayanaya Vidmahe),” vocalist S. J. Jananiy provides a powerful and sublime vocal performance over a hypnotic beat and melodic synths, Indian temple bells, beats and flutes. What you will hear is a three thousand year old mantra modernized to go right to the heart of the here and now, as contemporary trap music that is re-emerging from the streets.
Working with at least 30 different vocal layers, Jananiy delivers a unique collage of taans, aalaaps, swaras, and improvisations that blend beautifully with harmonies, presenting her passion propelled by her own personal strength. Listeners will find spicy delight at these dramatic and fantastic imaginative and colorful depictions of this famous ancient Indian legend. This is a salute to Maa Durga in her form as Katyayani, the sixth form of Durga. “Durga Mantra (Om Katyayani Vidmahe)” begins with the expression Om, which is the syllable that sets into motion all Hindu mantras. Maa Durga’s divine presence is felt throughout the universe.
The Goddess Durga is said to be one of the most powerful deities in the Hindu religion. She is also known by the name of Devi or Shakti which in Hindi means ‘woman’ and ‘power’ respectively. Durga is a warrior goddess, she is depicted expressing her martial skills, usually seen as a motherly figure and a beautiful woman, riding a lion or tiger, with many arms, each carrying a deadly weapon.
Durga’s facial expression is traditionally derived from the belief that she is protective and violent not because of her hatred, egotism or getting pleasure in violence, but because she acts out of necessity, for the love of the good, for liberation of those who depend on her, and a mark of the beginning of the soul’s journey to creative freedom. Durga’s legend centers around combating evils and demonic forces that threaten peace, prosperity, and dharma, representing the power of good over evil. Durga is believed to unleash her divine wrath against the wicked for the liberation of the oppressed, and entails destruction to empower creation.
The word Durga in Sanskrit means ‘a fort’ which symbolizes the fact that Goddess Durga is the epitome of strength and womanhood. Other times Goddess Durga is referred to as Durgati Nashini which translates to ‘one who eliminates suffering.’ She treats her worshippers just like a mother treats her children. She loves in a most caring way and she is equally likely to get angry when required. This all sums up to say that Goddess Durga blesses her worshippers with strength, patience and many such virtues, but she destroys the things that need to be destroyed.
The Durga Mantra (Om Katyayanaya Vidmahe) pushes the envelope,“As a musician, my material is sound,” says Indian Trap. “I’ve always considered myself a sound designer. When I learned that the Shaivite Hindu tradition believes that matter is vibration and the cosmos is sound, it got me thinking! We talk about someone having great vibes, don’t we? Don’t we say that some people vibe well together? These seemingly trivial words have a profound meaning! Mantras are prayers that ‘vibe’ with the universe. What better lyrics can a composer ask for? Jananiy brought the mantras, and I brought my music! Three thousand years old mantras that go right to the heart of matter and contemporary music that has emerged from the streets, from ordinary people… we’re talking about roots! Music is the medicine for the soul, Plato said. At its best, music is a cosmic energy that removes negativity and obstacles, bringing peace, focus, and satisfaction to all who listen. Ever heard of Bach? The journey may be long, but we are on the right track.”
S. J. Jananiy reflects, “Working along with Jay for this very special single was highly explorative by fusing the Vedic Mantras, his Indian Trap music, and the many vocalizations. It got me thinking about how these Mantras, encased in Trap music and Indian raga-based music, could be performed live, and that got me curious about those possibilities. This song has at least 30 different vocal layers, along with a unique collage of taans, aalaaps, swaras, and improvisations that blend beautifully with harmonies for Jay’s track!”
This mantra begins with the word Om, which is the main mantra of all mantras. It is a salute to Maa Durga in her form as Katyayani, the sixth form of Durga. Her divine presence is felt throughout the universe, and she is also worshipped as Kanyakumari. The devotee prays that no matter what name she is called, she is always Durga.
Goddess Durga, also known as Shakti or Devi, is the protective mother of the universe and the embodiment of true womanhood. She is known as Durgatinashini, meaning "the one who eliminates suffering." Like a mother, she deeply loves her children and protects them, nurturing and caring for them, while also destroying their enemies.
Maa Durga is the ultimate manifestation of Shakti and the fundamental essence of the universe. She is the most powerful deity and protects all that is good and harmonious in the world. By chanting her mantras, one can protect themselves from evil and negativity. She blesses her children by helping them overcome all misfortunes and evils.
Jay Singh, aka J2, is the successful record producer and composer behind Indian Trap. Jay rose to prominence after winning the prestigious Ministry of Sound DJ Idol Competition in 2002. He has since produced and remixed songs for various artists, including LL Cool J, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, and Madonna. He burst onto the pop music scene as J2 with the release of the smash hit “Dare La La La,” which he co-wrote and produced for Shakira’s 10th studio album; the track debuted in the Top 10 of most international charts. A reworked version titled “La La La” Brazil” was the official theme song for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and is featured on the One Love, One Rhythm World Cup album. The song was also used in a T-Mobile commercial and Shakira’s Activia commercial, which became the most shared advertisement of 2014 and has over 2 billion streams to date. J2’s compositions have appeared in over 100 films, trailers, video games, television shows, and advertisements. They gathered over 250 million streams across YouTube and other major DSPs.
S. J. Jananiy was a child prodigy. She is a Multi-Global-Award-Winning Composer. She studied Carnatic (South Indian), Hindustani (North Indian), and Western classical vocal traditions. She has an ATCL Vocal, Grade 8 in Western Classical Music, and studied piano and Western Classical Music theory at Trinity College, London. She plays the harp and the synthesizer. She works as a film-score composer, songwriter, performer, arranger, music producer, and sound engineer. She graduated from SMC, Chennai, with a degree in Economics. She has an M.A. in Indian music and an M. Phil from QMC, Chennai. She is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Indian Music. She has received the Indian National Award, State Awards & many other Awards.
Between 2018 and 2022, she received twelve Global Awards.
Smartlink: https://ffm.to/0k4yoe6
For more info and press inquiries, contact info@indiantrap.com
Indian Trap Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiantrap/
Indian Trap Website: https://www.indiantrap.com/
S. J. Jananiy Socials: https://www.flowcode.com/page/jananiysj
Working with at least 30 different vocal layers, Jananiy delivers a unique collage of taans, aalaaps, swaras, and improvisations that blend beautifully with harmonies, presenting her passion propelled by her own personal strength. Listeners will find spicy delight at these dramatic and fantastic imaginative and colorful depictions of this famous ancient Indian legend. This is a salute to Maa Durga in her form as Katyayani, the sixth form of Durga. “Durga Mantra (Om Katyayani Vidmahe)” begins with the expression Om, which is the syllable that sets into motion all Hindu mantras. Maa Durga’s divine presence is felt throughout the universe.
The Goddess Durga is said to be one of the most powerful deities in the Hindu religion. She is also known by the name of Devi or Shakti which in Hindi means ‘woman’ and ‘power’ respectively. Durga is a warrior goddess, she is depicted expressing her martial skills, usually seen as a motherly figure and a beautiful woman, riding a lion or tiger, with many arms, each carrying a deadly weapon.
Durga’s facial expression is traditionally derived from the belief that she is protective and violent not because of her hatred, egotism or getting pleasure in violence, but because she acts out of necessity, for the love of the good, for liberation of those who depend on her, and a mark of the beginning of the soul’s journey to creative freedom. Durga’s legend centers around combating evils and demonic forces that threaten peace, prosperity, and dharma, representing the power of good over evil. Durga is believed to unleash her divine wrath against the wicked for the liberation of the oppressed, and entails destruction to empower creation.
The word Durga in Sanskrit means ‘a fort’ which symbolizes the fact that Goddess Durga is the epitome of strength and womanhood. Other times Goddess Durga is referred to as Durgati Nashini which translates to ‘one who eliminates suffering.’ She treats her worshippers just like a mother treats her children. She loves in a most caring way and she is equally likely to get angry when required. This all sums up to say that Goddess Durga blesses her worshippers with strength, patience and many such virtues, but she destroys the things that need to be destroyed.
The Durga Mantra (Om Katyayanaya Vidmahe) pushes the envelope,“As a musician, my material is sound,” says Indian Trap. “I’ve always considered myself a sound designer. When I learned that the Shaivite Hindu tradition believes that matter is vibration and the cosmos is sound, it got me thinking! We talk about someone having great vibes, don’t we? Don’t we say that some people vibe well together? These seemingly trivial words have a profound meaning! Mantras are prayers that ‘vibe’ with the universe. What better lyrics can a composer ask for? Jananiy brought the mantras, and I brought my music! Three thousand years old mantras that go right to the heart of matter and contemporary music that has emerged from the streets, from ordinary people… we’re talking about roots! Music is the medicine for the soul, Plato said. At its best, music is a cosmic energy that removes negativity and obstacles, bringing peace, focus, and satisfaction to all who listen. Ever heard of Bach? The journey may be long, but we are on the right track.”
S. J. Jananiy reflects, “Working along with Jay for this very special single was highly explorative by fusing the Vedic Mantras, his Indian Trap music, and the many vocalizations. It got me thinking about how these Mantras, encased in Trap music and Indian raga-based music, could be performed live, and that got me curious about those possibilities. This song has at least 30 different vocal layers, along with a unique collage of taans, aalaaps, swaras, and improvisations that blend beautifully with harmonies for Jay’s track!”
This mantra begins with the word Om, which is the main mantra of all mantras. It is a salute to Maa Durga in her form as Katyayani, the sixth form of Durga. Her divine presence is felt throughout the universe, and she is also worshipped as Kanyakumari. The devotee prays that no matter what name she is called, she is always Durga.
Goddess Durga, also known as Shakti or Devi, is the protective mother of the universe and the embodiment of true womanhood. She is known as Durgatinashini, meaning "the one who eliminates suffering." Like a mother, she deeply loves her children and protects them, nurturing and caring for them, while also destroying their enemies.
Maa Durga is the ultimate manifestation of Shakti and the fundamental essence of the universe. She is the most powerful deity and protects all that is good and harmonious in the world. By chanting her mantras, one can protect themselves from evil and negativity. She blesses her children by helping them overcome all misfortunes and evils.
Jay Singh, aka J2, is the successful record producer and composer behind Indian Trap. Jay rose to prominence after winning the prestigious Ministry of Sound DJ Idol Competition in 2002. He has since produced and remixed songs for various artists, including LL Cool J, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, and Madonna. He burst onto the pop music scene as J2 with the release of the smash hit “Dare La La La,” which he co-wrote and produced for Shakira’s 10th studio album; the track debuted in the Top 10 of most international charts. A reworked version titled “La La La” Brazil” was the official theme song for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and is featured on the One Love, One Rhythm World Cup album. The song was also used in a T-Mobile commercial and Shakira’s Activia commercial, which became the most shared advertisement of 2014 and has over 2 billion streams to date. J2’s compositions have appeared in over 100 films, trailers, video games, television shows, and advertisements. They gathered over 250 million streams across YouTube and other major DSPs.
S. J. Jananiy was a child prodigy. She is a Multi-Global-Award-Winning Composer. She studied Carnatic (South Indian), Hindustani (North Indian), and Western classical vocal traditions. She has an ATCL Vocal, Grade 8 in Western Classical Music, and studied piano and Western Classical Music theory at Trinity College, London. She plays the harp and the synthesizer. She works as a film-score composer, songwriter, performer, arranger, music producer, and sound engineer. She graduated from SMC, Chennai, with a degree in Economics. She has an M.A. in Indian music and an M. Phil from QMC, Chennai. She is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Indian Music. She has received the Indian National Award, State Awards & many other Awards.
Between 2018 and 2022, she received twelve Global Awards.
Smartlink: https://ffm.to/0k4yoe6
For more info and press inquiries, contact info@indiantrap.com
Indian Trap Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiantrap/
Indian Trap Website: https://www.indiantrap.com/
S. J. Jananiy Socials: https://www.flowcode.com/page/jananiysj
Historically, when the global order seems to be reaching a boiling point, art comes
to the rescue. In fact, one could argue that the primary role of artists is to inspire,
empower and drive cultural change, striving for the better. Well, Florie Namir and
Franck Biyong do exactly that.
After connecting through digital avenues, the two musical heroes used their combined
strengths to create a stunning piece of lyrical sensibility, ‘Silence is Music’. On an
eclectic bed of soothing, jazzy afrobeat, the two talents declare a message of cooperation
and peace, birthing a relatable song that seeks to highlight the power of dialogue
and self-acceptance.
This is a much-needed statement, especially during volatile and complex times. It also
works very well with Namir and Biyong’s artistries. The evocative vocals of the Israeli
songstress pair perfectly with Biyong’s masterful guitar playing and charming,
soulful vocal tone.
Recommended!
Discover ‘Silence is Music’ on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/album/00WPTjitBqhaJwa3Y4U923
The Bostonians’ touring has led them to tour up and down the East Coast, granting them insights into the political perspectives of a wide array of individuals.
The plaintive and acoustic “Agree On” is what the duo considers to be a “prayer that we will be able to find common ground in a deeply divided democracy.”
“We are struck by how much people actually have in common as parents, children, workers, Americans, brothers and sisters.
For this country to move forward in a positive way, we need to acknowledge and respect differences, but we also need to appreciate the humanity that exists in everyone.”
Listen here:
https://open.spotify.com/album/6XmeTB9gnBKIPlUPTnWjaL
The oud is a musical instrument that is widely used in Middle Eastern and North African music. It is a stringed instrument that is similar in appearance to a lute or a guitar, but with a smaller, more rounded body and a longer neck. The oud has been played for centuries, and it has a long and rich history in Arabic, Turkish, and Persian music.
The oud is typically made from wood, with a rounded body that is often made from a combination of thin wood strips that are glued together to form the shape. The neck of the oud is long and thin, with a fretboard that is often made from ebony or rosewood. The strings of the oud are usually made from gut, nylon, or steel, and they are tuned using pegs that are located at the top of the neck.
The oud is played by plucking the strings with a plectrum or with the fingers, and it is known for its rich, warm, and resonant sound. The oud is often used as a solo instrument, but it is also frequently used in ensembles with other instruments, such as the qanun, the ney, and the darbuka.
In addition to its use in traditional Middle Eastern and North African music, the oud has also been adopted by musicians in other parts of the world, and it has been incorporated into various genres of music, including jazz, rock, and world music. Today, the oud is recognized as one of the most iconic and beloved instruments in the world, with a unique sound that is instantly recognizable to music lovers everywhere.
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Some famous musicians that played the oud
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There have been many famous musicians throughout history who have played the oud, including:
1. Farid Al-Atrash: a Syrian-Egyptian composer, singer, and oud player who is considered one of the greatest oud players of the 20th century.
2. Munir Bashir: an Iraqi musician and composer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest oud players of all time.
3. Marcel Khalife: a Lebanese composer, singer, and oud player who is known for his innovative style of playing and his contributions to contemporary Arabic music.
4. Anouar Brahem: a Tunisian oud player and composer who has been praised for his fusion of traditional Arabic music with jazz and other genres.
5. Simon Shaheen: a Palestinian oud player, violinist, and composer who has been recognized for his virtuosity and his contributions to Arabic music.
6. Naseer Shamma: an Iraqi oud player and composer who has been instrumental in reviving interest in the oud and promoting it to a new generation of musicians.
7. Rabih Abou-Khalil: a Lebanese oud player and composer who has been praised for his fusion of traditional Arabic music with jazz and other genres.
These are just a few examples of the many talented musicians who have played the oud throughout history.
The oud is typically made from wood, with a rounded body that is often made from a combination of thin wood strips that are glued together to form the shape. The neck of the oud is long and thin, with a fretboard that is often made from ebony or rosewood. The strings of the oud are usually made from gut, nylon, or steel, and they are tuned using pegs that are located at the top of the neck.
The oud is played by plucking the strings with a plectrum or with the fingers, and it is known for its rich, warm, and resonant sound. The oud is often used as a solo instrument, but it is also frequently used in ensembles with other instruments, such as the qanun, the ney, and the darbuka.
In addition to its use in traditional Middle Eastern and North African music, the oud has also been adopted by musicians in other parts of the world, and it has been incorporated into various genres of music, including jazz, rock, and world music. Today, the oud is recognized as one of the most iconic and beloved instruments in the world, with a unique sound that is instantly recognizable to music lovers everywhere.
---
Some famous musicians that played the oud
---
There have been many famous musicians throughout history who have played the oud, including:
1. Farid Al-Atrash: a Syrian-Egyptian composer, singer, and oud player who is considered one of the greatest oud players of the 20th century.
2. Munir Bashir: an Iraqi musician and composer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest oud players of all time.
3. Marcel Khalife: a Lebanese composer, singer, and oud player who is known for his innovative style of playing and his contributions to contemporary Arabic music.
4. Anouar Brahem: a Tunisian oud player and composer who has been praised for his fusion of traditional Arabic music with jazz and other genres.
5. Simon Shaheen: a Palestinian oud player, violinist, and composer who has been recognized for his virtuosity and his contributions to Arabic music.
6. Naseer Shamma: an Iraqi oud player and composer who has been instrumental in reviving interest in the oud and promoting it to a new generation of musicians.
7. Rabih Abou-Khalil: a Lebanese oud player and composer who has been praised for his fusion of traditional Arabic music with jazz and other genres.
These are just a few examples of the many talented musicians who have played the oud throughout history.
Now, Eric has welcomed the much anticipated 3rd full-length record, 'Dang Fool,' which is available on all music platforms.
Eric says he sees 'Dang Fool,' as the final chapter of a three-chapter journey. “The first chapter being my first record, 'Do, Baby.,' and the second being my next release, 'Where You Born At?' It really wasn’t planned or intended to be that way but it has evolved to be the coda on this part of my creative and emotional journey that, for some reason, I needed to communicate.”
'Dang Fool' is a retrospective look at an emotional journey that suggests that it is time to stop looking in the rearview mirror and it is time to start looking forward. "A good representation of this is that although I’ve never recorded a cover on any of my records but I felt that recording my own interpretation of The Beatles’ “Tomorrow Never Knows'' as the last song on this record was an apropos way to finish out this release since the title, alone, suggests hope, mystery and potential," he says.
Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/album/1PbwbI6jJ5jAhWuzUgIopc?si=te7WmnMkSSqXscuh57dw1Q
In 2022 alone, Eric was named a Finalist by the WAMMIE AWARDS for Best Folk Artist, Best Folk Album, Best Folk Song, and Best Pop Song. Roots Music Report listed both of Eric’s releases, 'Do, Baby.' and 'Where You Born At?' as their National TOP CONTEMPORARY FOLK ALBUM CHART's Best of 2021.
Eric has performed live and recorded with many talented artists, including, but not limited to, Ron Holloway (Warren Haynes, Dizzy Gillespie, The Allman Brothers, Sonny Rollins, Tedeschi/Trucks), Lenny Castro (Adele, The Rolling Stones, Steely Dan, Maroon 5, Stevie Wonder), and Allison Russell (Birds of Chicago, Our Native Daughters).
Eric has been named Blue411's Drum Thumper “Jimi” Award winner, been nominated for multiple WAMMIE awards, inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, #1 on Blues411's charts multiple times and was featured in Modern Drummer for his approach and perspective in their “Drummer Blogs.”
Eric is a Soul Stew Records recording artist and endorses: SonoTone Premium Guitar & Bass Strings, Canopus Drums, Soultone Cymbals, Tycoon Percussion, The Grombal-Cymbal Accessories, CymbalChief, BEATO Bags and Ahead Drumsticks and is a DrumART showcased artist
Africa is a vast and diverse continent with a rich musical heritage. African music has had a profound impact on many musical genres, including jazz, blues, and rock, and has become increasingly popular worldwide in recent years. Here is an overview of some of the different styles of music from Africa:
1. Afrobeat: Afrobeat is a fusion of West African music, jazz, and funk that emerged in the 1970s. The music is characterized by complex rhythms, heavy use of percussion, and politically charged lyrics. The genre was popularized by Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, who was known for his social and political activism.
2. Highlife: Highlife is a genre that originated in Ghana in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its use of Western instruments, such as the guitar, and its incorporation of African rhythms and melodies. Highlife music is often associated with social gatherings and dance parties.
3. Soukous: Soukous is a style of dance music that originated in Congo in the 1930s. It is characterized by its use of African rhythms and Cuban rumba, as well as its distinctive guitar and vocal style. Soukous has been popular throughout Africa since the 1950s and has influenced many other styles of African music.
4. Mbalax: Mbalax is a genre of music that originated in Senegal in the 1970s. It is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and percussion, as well as its incorporation of Western instruments such as the guitar and keyboard. Mbalax is often associated with social and political commentary, and has become popular throughout West Africa.
5. Juju: Juju is a style of music that originated in Nigeria in the 1920s. It is characterized by its use of the talking drum, a traditional West African instrument, as well as its incorporation of Western instruments such as the guitar and accordion. Juju music is often associated with spiritual or religious themes, and is popular throughout Nigeria and other parts of West Africa.
6. Ghanian Highlife: Highlife music from Ghana evolved from traditional Akan music and European influences. The genre features lively rhythms, call-and-response vocals, and jazzy horns.
7. Ethio-jazz: Ethio-jazz is a fusion of jazz and traditional Ethiopian music. The genre emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and was popularized by musicians such as Mulatu Astatke. Ethio-jazz features complex rhythms, a pentatonic scale, and use of traditional instruments such as the krar and masenqo.
8. Malian Blues: Malian blues is a fusion of West African traditional music, American blues, and rock music. The genre features intricate guitar work, pentatonic scales, and call-and-response vocals. Musicians such as Ali Farka Touré and Tinariwen have popularized this style.
9. Taarab: Taarab is a style of music from East Africa that originated in Zanzibar. The genre features Arabic, Indian, and African influences and is characterized by the use of the oud, qanun, and accordion. Taarab music often features poetic lyrics and is associated with social and political commentary.
10. Afro-Cuban music: Afro-Cuban music emerged in Cuba in the early 20th century and features a fusion of African and Cuban music. The genre features complex rhythms, polyrhythms, and the use of traditional African instruments such as the bata and conga drums.
These are just a few examples of the many world music styles from Africa. Each region of Africa has its own unique musical heritage, and there are countless other genres and sub-genres to explore.
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Some famous world artists musicians from Africa
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There are many other world music styles from Africa beyond the ones I mentioned earlier. Here are some more examples:
1. Ghanian Highlife: Highlife music from Ghana evolved from traditional Akan music and European influences. The genre features lively rhythms, call-and-response vocals, and jazzy horns.
2. Ethio-jazz: Ethio-jazz is a fusion of jazz and traditional Ethiopian music. The genre emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and was popularized by musicians such as Mulatu Astatke. Ethio-jazz features complex rhythms, a pentatonic scale, and use of traditional instruments such as the krar and masenqo.
3. Malian Blues: Malian blues is a fusion of West African traditional music, American blues, and rock music. The genre features intricate guitar work, pentatonic scales, and call-and-response vocals. Musicians such as Ali Farka Touré and Tinariwen have popularized this style.
4. Taarab: Taarab is a style of music from East Africa that originated in Zanzibar. The genre features Arabic, Indian, and African influences and is characterized by the use of the oud, qanun, and accordion. Taarab music often features poetic lyrics and is associated with social and political commentary.
5. Afro-Cuban music: Afro-Cuban music emerged in Cuba in the early 20th century and features a fusion of African and Cuban music. The genre features complex rhythms, polyrhythms, and the use of traditional African instruments such as the bata and conga drums.
6. Fela Kuti: Fela Kuti, from Nigeria, was a pioneer of Afrobeat music. He was known for his socially and politically conscious lyrics and for his energetic and mesmerizing performances. Kuti's music has influenced countless musicians around the world.
7. Youssou N'Dour: Youssou N'Dour, from Senegal, is one of the most popular African musicians of all time. He has been a major force in popularizing Mbalax music, and has collaborated with many musicians from around the world. N'Dour has won multiple Grammy Awards for his music.
8. Miriam Makeba: Miriam Makeba, from South Africa, was a singer and activist who became known as "Mama Africa." She was a powerful voice against apartheid in South Africa, and her music combined traditional South African music with jazz and other genres. Makeba became a symbol of the struggle against racism and injustice.
9. Ali Farka Touré: Ali Farka Touré, from Mali, was a guitarist and singer who helped popularize Malian Blues music. His music was characterized by his intricate guitar playing and powerful vocals, and he was known for blending traditional West African music with American blues.
10. Salif Keita: Salif Keita, from Mali, is a singer and songwriter who has been called the "golden voice of Africa." He is known for his powerful vocals and his ability to blend different musical styles, including traditional West African music, jazz, and pop. Keita's music often addresses social and political issues in Africa.
These are just a few examples of the many famous world music musicians from Africa. There are countless other artists who have made significant contributions to world music and have helped to popularize African musical traditions around the world.
1. Afrobeat: Afrobeat is a fusion of West African music, jazz, and funk that emerged in the 1970s. The music is characterized by complex rhythms, heavy use of percussion, and politically charged lyrics. The genre was popularized by Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, who was known for his social and political activism.
2. Highlife: Highlife is a genre that originated in Ghana in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its use of Western instruments, such as the guitar, and its incorporation of African rhythms and melodies. Highlife music is often associated with social gatherings and dance parties.
3. Soukous: Soukous is a style of dance music that originated in Congo in the 1930s. It is characterized by its use of African rhythms and Cuban rumba, as well as its distinctive guitar and vocal style. Soukous has been popular throughout Africa since the 1950s and has influenced many other styles of African music.
4. Mbalax: Mbalax is a genre of music that originated in Senegal in the 1970s. It is characterized by its use of complex rhythms and percussion, as well as its incorporation of Western instruments such as the guitar and keyboard. Mbalax is often associated with social and political commentary, and has become popular throughout West Africa.
5. Juju: Juju is a style of music that originated in Nigeria in the 1920s. It is characterized by its use of the talking drum, a traditional West African instrument, as well as its incorporation of Western instruments such as the guitar and accordion. Juju music is often associated with spiritual or religious themes, and is popular throughout Nigeria and other parts of West Africa.
6. Ghanian Highlife: Highlife music from Ghana evolved from traditional Akan music and European influences. The genre features lively rhythms, call-and-response vocals, and jazzy horns.
7. Ethio-jazz: Ethio-jazz is a fusion of jazz and traditional Ethiopian music. The genre emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and was popularized by musicians such as Mulatu Astatke. Ethio-jazz features complex rhythms, a pentatonic scale, and use of traditional instruments such as the krar and masenqo.
8. Malian Blues: Malian blues is a fusion of West African traditional music, American blues, and rock music. The genre features intricate guitar work, pentatonic scales, and call-and-response vocals. Musicians such as Ali Farka Touré and Tinariwen have popularized this style.
9. Taarab: Taarab is a style of music from East Africa that originated in Zanzibar. The genre features Arabic, Indian, and African influences and is characterized by the use of the oud, qanun, and accordion. Taarab music often features poetic lyrics and is associated with social and political commentary.
10. Afro-Cuban music: Afro-Cuban music emerged in Cuba in the early 20th century and features a fusion of African and Cuban music. The genre features complex rhythms, polyrhythms, and the use of traditional African instruments such as the bata and conga drums.
These are just a few examples of the many world music styles from Africa. Each region of Africa has its own unique musical heritage, and there are countless other genres and sub-genres to explore.
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Some famous world artists musicians from Africa
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There are many other world music styles from Africa beyond the ones I mentioned earlier. Here are some more examples:
1. Ghanian Highlife: Highlife music from Ghana evolved from traditional Akan music and European influences. The genre features lively rhythms, call-and-response vocals, and jazzy horns.
2. Ethio-jazz: Ethio-jazz is a fusion of jazz and traditional Ethiopian music. The genre emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and was popularized by musicians such as Mulatu Astatke. Ethio-jazz features complex rhythms, a pentatonic scale, and use of traditional instruments such as the krar and masenqo.
3. Malian Blues: Malian blues is a fusion of West African traditional music, American blues, and rock music. The genre features intricate guitar work, pentatonic scales, and call-and-response vocals. Musicians such as Ali Farka Touré and Tinariwen have popularized this style.
4. Taarab: Taarab is a style of music from East Africa that originated in Zanzibar. The genre features Arabic, Indian, and African influences and is characterized by the use of the oud, qanun, and accordion. Taarab music often features poetic lyrics and is associated with social and political commentary.
5. Afro-Cuban music: Afro-Cuban music emerged in Cuba in the early 20th century and features a fusion of African and Cuban music. The genre features complex rhythms, polyrhythms, and the use of traditional African instruments such as the bata and conga drums.
6. Fela Kuti: Fela Kuti, from Nigeria, was a pioneer of Afrobeat music. He was known for his socially and politically conscious lyrics and for his energetic and mesmerizing performances. Kuti's music has influenced countless musicians around the world.
7. Youssou N'Dour: Youssou N'Dour, from Senegal, is one of the most popular African musicians of all time. He has been a major force in popularizing Mbalax music, and has collaborated with many musicians from around the world. N'Dour has won multiple Grammy Awards for his music.
8. Miriam Makeba: Miriam Makeba, from South Africa, was a singer and activist who became known as "Mama Africa." She was a powerful voice against apartheid in South Africa, and her music combined traditional South African music with jazz and other genres. Makeba became a symbol of the struggle against racism and injustice.
9. Ali Farka Touré: Ali Farka Touré, from Mali, was a guitarist and singer who helped popularize Malian Blues music. His music was characterized by his intricate guitar playing and powerful vocals, and he was known for blending traditional West African music with American blues.
10. Salif Keita: Salif Keita, from Mali, is a singer and songwriter who has been called the "golden voice of Africa." He is known for his powerful vocals and his ability to blend different musical styles, including traditional West African music, jazz, and pop. Keita's music often addresses social and political issues in Africa.
These are just a few examples of the many famous world music musicians from Africa. There are countless other artists who have made significant contributions to world music and have helped to popularize African musical traditions around the world.
The shruti box is a small, handheld bellows-operated musical instrument that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is also known as the surpeti, surpetiya, or swarpeti.
The shruti box is typically made of wood and has a series of metal or reed pipes inside that are tuned to specific notes. The bellows are used to create a continuous flow of air that causes the pipes to vibrate and produce a sustained, drone-like sound. The pitch of the sound can be adjusted by pulling or pushing the bellows to control the amount of air flowing through the pipes.
The shruti box is often used in Indian classical music and is particularly popular in the genres of Hindustani and Carnatic music. It is typically used as an accompaniment to other instruments or vocal performances, providing a constant drone that serves as a reference point for the other musicians.
In addition to its use in traditional Indian music, the shruti box has also been incorporated into contemporary music genres such as ambient and experimental music. Its ability to produce a sustained, meditative drone makes it a popular tool for sound healers and practitioners of yoga and meditation.
Overall, the shruti box is a versatile and unique musical instrument that has a rich cultural history and continues to be used in a variety of musical contexts.
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Some famous musician who played the shruti box
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The shruti box is primarily used as an accompaniment instrument in Indian classical music, and many well-known Indian classical musicians have played it during their performances. Here are a few examples:
1. Pandit Ravi Shankar: The legendary sitar player and composer, who is often credited with popularizing Indian classical music in the West, occasionally played the shruti box in his performances.
2. Ustad Ali Akbar Khan: The sarod maestro, who was a disciple of Ravi Shankar, also used the shruti box in his performances.
3. Pandit Jasraj: The renowned Hindustani classical vocalist was known for his powerful voice, which was often accompanied by the gentle drone of the shruti box.
4. Hariprasad Chaurasia: The renowned flutist and composer, who is known for his innovative approach to Indian classical music, has used the shruti box in some of his compositions.
5. Anoushka Shankar: The sitar player and composer, who is Ravi Shankar's daughter, has experimented with using the shruti box in some of her contemporary compositions.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other musicians who have used the shruti box in their performances, both in traditional and contemporary contexts.
The shruti box is typically made of wood and has a series of metal or reed pipes inside that are tuned to specific notes. The bellows are used to create a continuous flow of air that causes the pipes to vibrate and produce a sustained, drone-like sound. The pitch of the sound can be adjusted by pulling or pushing the bellows to control the amount of air flowing through the pipes.
The shruti box is often used in Indian classical music and is particularly popular in the genres of Hindustani and Carnatic music. It is typically used as an accompaniment to other instruments or vocal performances, providing a constant drone that serves as a reference point for the other musicians.
In addition to its use in traditional Indian music, the shruti box has also been incorporated into contemporary music genres such as ambient and experimental music. Its ability to produce a sustained, meditative drone makes it a popular tool for sound healers and practitioners of yoga and meditation.
Overall, the shruti box is a versatile and unique musical instrument that has a rich cultural history and continues to be used in a variety of musical contexts.
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Some famous musician who played the shruti box
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The shruti box is primarily used as an accompaniment instrument in Indian classical music, and many well-known Indian classical musicians have played it during their performances. Here are a few examples:
1. Pandit Ravi Shankar: The legendary sitar player and composer, who is often credited with popularizing Indian classical music in the West, occasionally played the shruti box in his performances.
2. Ustad Ali Akbar Khan: The sarod maestro, who was a disciple of Ravi Shankar, also used the shruti box in his performances.
3. Pandit Jasraj: The renowned Hindustani classical vocalist was known for his powerful voice, which was often accompanied by the gentle drone of the shruti box.
4. Hariprasad Chaurasia: The renowned flutist and composer, who is known for his innovative approach to Indian classical music, has used the shruti box in some of his compositions.
5. Anoushka Shankar: The sitar player and composer, who is Ravi Shankar's daughter, has experimented with using the shruti box in some of her contemporary compositions.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other musicians who have used the shruti box in their performances, both in traditional and contemporary contexts.
Tanpura is a long-necked plucked string instrument widely used in the classical music of the Indian subcontinent. It is also known as tambura, tanpuri or drone. The instrument has a hollow body and usually four or five strings, which are tuned to the notes of the raga being performed.
The main purpose of the tanpura is to provide a drone or a continuous harmonic background to the music being played. The sound of the tanpura is soothing and meditative, and it creates a calming effect on the listener. The drone created by the tanpura also helps the musician to stay in tune and maintain the correct pitch throughout the performance.
The tanpura is played by plucking the strings with the fingers of the right hand, while the left hand is used to press and hold the strings against the frets. The instrument is usually played while sitting cross-legged on the floor, and it is placed on the lap or on a small stand in front of the musician.
There are several types of tanpuras, each with their own unique characteristics. The most common types are the male and female tanpuras, which differ in size and tuning. The male tanpura has a larger body and is tuned to a lower pitch, while the female tanpura is smaller and tuned to a higher pitch.
In addition to classical music, the tanpura is also used in devotional music and in fusion music. It is an integral part of the Indian music tradition and is considered to be one of the most important instruments in the classical repertoire.
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Some famous musicians that played the tanpura
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As the tanpura is an essential and ubiquitous instrument in Indian classical music, there have been many famous musicians who have played it. Here are some notable examples:
1. Pandit Ravi Shankar - A legendary sitar player and composer who is widely considered to be one of the greatest Indian classical musicians of all time. He frequently played the tanpura in his performances.
2. Ustad Vilayat Khan - A renowned sitar player who was known for his technical virtuosity and innovative style. He often played the tanpura in his performances.
3. Begum Akhtar - A celebrated ghazal and thumri singer who was known for her emotive and soulful voice. She used the tanpura as a drone accompaniment in her performances.
4. Pandit Jasraj - A classical vocalist who was known for his powerful and expressive voice. He often played the tanpura while singing.
5. Kishori Amonkar - A classical vocalist who was known for her unique style and innovative approach to raga interpretation. She frequently used the tanpura as a drone accompaniment in her performances.
These are just a few examples of the many famous musicians who have played the tanpura. The instrument has been an integral part of Indian classical music for centuries and continues to be a vital component of the tradition today.
The main purpose of the tanpura is to provide a drone or a continuous harmonic background to the music being played. The sound of the tanpura is soothing and meditative, and it creates a calming effect on the listener. The drone created by the tanpura also helps the musician to stay in tune and maintain the correct pitch throughout the performance.
The tanpura is played by plucking the strings with the fingers of the right hand, while the left hand is used to press and hold the strings against the frets. The instrument is usually played while sitting cross-legged on the floor, and it is placed on the lap or on a small stand in front of the musician.
There are several types of tanpuras, each with their own unique characteristics. The most common types are the male and female tanpuras, which differ in size and tuning. The male tanpura has a larger body and is tuned to a lower pitch, while the female tanpura is smaller and tuned to a higher pitch.
In addition to classical music, the tanpura is also used in devotional music and in fusion music. It is an integral part of the Indian music tradition and is considered to be one of the most important instruments in the classical repertoire.
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Some famous musicians that played the tanpura
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As the tanpura is an essential and ubiquitous instrument in Indian classical music, there have been many famous musicians who have played it. Here are some notable examples:
1. Pandit Ravi Shankar - A legendary sitar player and composer who is widely considered to be one of the greatest Indian classical musicians of all time. He frequently played the tanpura in his performances.
2. Ustad Vilayat Khan - A renowned sitar player who was known for his technical virtuosity and innovative style. He often played the tanpura in his performances.
3. Begum Akhtar - A celebrated ghazal and thumri singer who was known for her emotive and soulful voice. She used the tanpura as a drone accompaniment in her performances.
4. Pandit Jasraj - A classical vocalist who was known for his powerful and expressive voice. He often played the tanpura while singing.
5. Kishori Amonkar - A classical vocalist who was known for her unique style and innovative approach to raga interpretation. She frequently used the tanpura as a drone accompaniment in her performances.
These are just a few examples of the many famous musicians who have played the tanpura. The instrument has been an integral part of Indian classical music for centuries and continues to be a vital component of the tradition today.
Harmonium is a musical instrument that belongs to the family of reed organs. It is a small, hand-pumped keyboard instrument that produces sound by blowing air through reeds, which are thin strips of metal, similar to those found in an accordion or a harmonica.
The harmonium is played by pumping a set of bellows with one hand while the other hand plays the keyboard. The player can control the volume of the sound by pumping the bellows harder or softer, and can create a range of different tones by manipulating the stops, which are small knobs that control the airflow through different sets of reeds.
Harmoniums are commonly used in Indian classical music and devotional music, particularly in Hindu, Sikh, and Sufi traditions. They are also used in some styles of folk and popular music in South Asia.
Harmoniums come in a variety of sizes, from small, portable instruments that can be carried by hand, to larger, more elaborate models that are designed for use in concert halls or other large venues. They are often decorated with intricate carvings and colorful designs, making them not only a musical instrument but also a work of art.
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Some famous musicians that played the harmonium
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There are many famous musicians who have played the harmonium, especially in the context of Indian classical music and devotional music. Here are a few examples:
1. Pandit Bhimsen Joshi - a legendary Hindustani classical vocalist who often accompanied himself on the harmonium during his performances.
2. Ustad Bismillah Khan - a shehnai player who also played the harmonium and incorporated it into his music.
3. Annapurna Devi - a sitar player who also played the harmonium and was known for her unique approach to Indian classical music.
4. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan - a Pakistani qawwali singer who often used the harmonium in his performances, blending traditional qawwali music with contemporary influences.
5. Pt. Ravi Shankar - a sitar player who also played the harmonium and incorporated it into some of his compositions.
6. Lata Mangeshkar - a famous Indian playback singer who has also played the harmonium on occasion.
7. John Lennon - The Beatles' song "We Can Work It Out" features a prominent harmonium part played by John Lennon.
8. Pete Townshend - The Who's song "Won't Get Fooled Again" also features a prominent harmonium part played by Pete Townshend.
9. Brian Jones - The Rolling Stones' song "Ruby Tuesday" features a beautiful harmonium part played by Brian Jones.
10. The Kinks - The Kinks' song "Sunny Afternoon" features a distinct harmonium riff played by Ray Davies.
11. Bob Dylan - Bob Dylan's song "Like a Rolling Stone" features a haunting harmonium part played by Al Kooper.
These are just a few examples of the many musicians who have incorporated the harmonium into their music. While the instrument has a particularly strong association with Indian classical music, it has been used in a variety of genres and can add a unique and distinctive sound to a song.
The harmonium is played by pumping a set of bellows with one hand while the other hand plays the keyboard. The player can control the volume of the sound by pumping the bellows harder or softer, and can create a range of different tones by manipulating the stops, which are small knobs that control the airflow through different sets of reeds.
Harmoniums are commonly used in Indian classical music and devotional music, particularly in Hindu, Sikh, and Sufi traditions. They are also used in some styles of folk and popular music in South Asia.
Harmoniums come in a variety of sizes, from small, portable instruments that can be carried by hand, to larger, more elaborate models that are designed for use in concert halls or other large venues. They are often decorated with intricate carvings and colorful designs, making them not only a musical instrument but also a work of art.
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Some famous musicians that played the harmonium
---
There are many famous musicians who have played the harmonium, especially in the context of Indian classical music and devotional music. Here are a few examples:
1. Pandit Bhimsen Joshi - a legendary Hindustani classical vocalist who often accompanied himself on the harmonium during his performances.
2. Ustad Bismillah Khan - a shehnai player who also played the harmonium and incorporated it into his music.
3. Annapurna Devi - a sitar player who also played the harmonium and was known for her unique approach to Indian classical music.
4. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan - a Pakistani qawwali singer who often used the harmonium in his performances, blending traditional qawwali music with contemporary influences.
5. Pt. Ravi Shankar - a sitar player who also played the harmonium and incorporated it into some of his compositions.
6. Lata Mangeshkar - a famous Indian playback singer who has also played the harmonium on occasion.
7. John Lennon - The Beatles' song "We Can Work It Out" features a prominent harmonium part played by John Lennon.
8. Pete Townshend - The Who's song "Won't Get Fooled Again" also features a prominent harmonium part played by Pete Townshend.
9. Brian Jones - The Rolling Stones' song "Ruby Tuesday" features a beautiful harmonium part played by Brian Jones.
10. The Kinks - The Kinks' song "Sunny Afternoon" features a distinct harmonium riff played by Ray Davies.
11. Bob Dylan - Bob Dylan's song "Like a Rolling Stone" features a haunting harmonium part played by Al Kooper.
These are just a few examples of the many musicians who have incorporated the harmonium into their music. While the instrument has a particularly strong association with Indian classical music, it has been used in a variety of genres and can add a unique and distinctive sound to a song.
Tabla is a percussion instrument that is widely used in classical music and folk music of the Indian subcontinent. It consists of two small drums of different sizes, one played with the left hand and the other with the right hand.
The smaller drum is called the "dayan" or "tabla" and is made of wood, while the larger drum is called the "bayan" or "duggi" and is made of metal. The two drums are tuned to different pitches, with the dayan usually tuned to a higher pitch than the bayan.
The tabla is played by striking the drums with the fingers and palms of both hands, producing a wide range of sounds and rhythms. The musician can control the pitch and tone of the drum by applying pressure to the head of the drum with the fingers and palm.
The tabla is an essential instrument in Indian classical music, and it is often used to accompany vocal and instrumental performances. It is also used in fusion music, including jazz, world music, and electronic music.
Learning to play the tabla requires a lot of practice and dedication, and there are many schools and teachers who specialize in teaching this instrument. Tabla players often have a deep understanding of rhythm and timing, and they play a crucial role in creating the complex rhythms and grooves that are characteristic of Indian music.
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Some famous musicians that played tabla
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There have been many great musicians who have played the tabla, both in traditional Indian music and in contemporary genres. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Zakir Hussain - He is one of the most well-known tabla players in the world and has collaborated with a wide range of musicians from different genres, including jazz, classical, and world music.
2. Ustad Alla Rakha - He was a legendary tabla player and was the father of Zakir Hussain. He collaborated with Ravi Shankar and George Harrison of The Beatles.
3. Pandit Kishan Maharaj - He was a renowned tabla player and part of the Benaras gharana, one of the six main schools of tabla playing in India.
4. Anindo Chatterjee - He is a leading tabla player and has collaborated with many renowned musicians from India and abroad.
5. Bikram Ghosh - He is a versatile tabla player who has worked with a variety of genres, including Indian classical, fusion, and rock.
6. Aneesh Pradhan - He is a tabla player, percussionist, and composer who has worked with many prominent musicians in India.
These are just a few examples of the many talented tabla players who have made a significant contribution to the world of music.
The smaller drum is called the "dayan" or "tabla" and is made of wood, while the larger drum is called the "bayan" or "duggi" and is made of metal. The two drums are tuned to different pitches, with the dayan usually tuned to a higher pitch than the bayan.
The tabla is played by striking the drums with the fingers and palms of both hands, producing a wide range of sounds and rhythms. The musician can control the pitch and tone of the drum by applying pressure to the head of the drum with the fingers and palm.
The tabla is an essential instrument in Indian classical music, and it is often used to accompany vocal and instrumental performances. It is also used in fusion music, including jazz, world music, and electronic music.
Learning to play the tabla requires a lot of practice and dedication, and there are many schools and teachers who specialize in teaching this instrument. Tabla players often have a deep understanding of rhythm and timing, and they play a crucial role in creating the complex rhythms and grooves that are characteristic of Indian music.
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Some famous musicians that played tabla
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There have been many great musicians who have played the tabla, both in traditional Indian music and in contemporary genres. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Zakir Hussain - He is one of the most well-known tabla players in the world and has collaborated with a wide range of musicians from different genres, including jazz, classical, and world music.
2. Ustad Alla Rakha - He was a legendary tabla player and was the father of Zakir Hussain. He collaborated with Ravi Shankar and George Harrison of The Beatles.
3. Pandit Kishan Maharaj - He was a renowned tabla player and part of the Benaras gharana, one of the six main schools of tabla playing in India.
4. Anindo Chatterjee - He is a leading tabla player and has collaborated with many renowned musicians from India and abroad.
5. Bikram Ghosh - He is a versatile tabla player who has worked with a variety of genres, including Indian classical, fusion, and rock.
6. Aneesh Pradhan - He is a tabla player, percussionist, and composer who has worked with many prominent musicians in India.
These are just a few examples of the many talented tabla players who have made a significant contribution to the world of music.
The sitar is a plucked stringed musical instrument that is widely used in classical music from the Indian subcontinent. It is known for its distinctive sound and is often associated with Indian classical music.
The sitar is typically made of a gourd, which acts as the resonating chamber, and a long wooden neck with frets. The frets are movable, allowing the player to produce microtones, which are the intervals between the notes found in Western music. The sitar also has sympathetic strings, which vibrate in response to the notes played on the main strings, adding a rich and complex layer to the sound.
The sitar is played by sitting on the ground with the instrument placed on the player's lap. The player plucks the strings with a plectrum, called a mizrab, which is worn on the index finger of the right hand. The left hand is used to press down on the strings, producing different notes and microtones.
The sitar has a long and rich history, dating back several centuries. It has been played by many famous musicians, including Ravi Shankar, who popularized the instrument in the West and introduced it to a wider audience. Today, the sitar is used in a wide range of music genres, from traditional classical music to fusion and contemporary styles.
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Some famous musicians that played sitar
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There have been many famous musicians who have played the sitar, both in India and around the world. Here are a few examples:
1. Ravi Shankar: Shankar was one of the most famous sitar players of all time. He was a virtuoso musician and composer, and he played a major role in popularizing Indian classical music around the world.
2. Anoushka Shankar: Anoushka Shankar is Ravi Shankar's daughter, and she is also a highly accomplished sitar player. She has continued her father's legacy and has become a prominent figure in the world of Indian classical music.
3. Vilayat Khan: Vilayat Khan was a legendary sitar player who is often credited with introducing new techniques and styles to the instrument.
4. Nikhil Banerjee: Banerjee was another highly influential sitar player, known for his skill and virtuosity on the instrument.
5. Pandit Ravi Shankar's students: Shankar had many notable students who have gone on to become accomplished sitar players in their own right, including George Harrison of The Beatles, who learned to play sitar from Shankar and used the instrument in several of the band's songs.
These are just a few examples of the many talented sitar players who have left their mark on the world of music.
The sitar is typically made of a gourd, which acts as the resonating chamber, and a long wooden neck with frets. The frets are movable, allowing the player to produce microtones, which are the intervals between the notes found in Western music. The sitar also has sympathetic strings, which vibrate in response to the notes played on the main strings, adding a rich and complex layer to the sound.
The sitar is played by sitting on the ground with the instrument placed on the player's lap. The player plucks the strings with a plectrum, called a mizrab, which is worn on the index finger of the right hand. The left hand is used to press down on the strings, producing different notes and microtones.
The sitar has a long and rich history, dating back several centuries. It has been played by many famous musicians, including Ravi Shankar, who popularized the instrument in the West and introduced it to a wider audience. Today, the sitar is used in a wide range of music genres, from traditional classical music to fusion and contemporary styles.
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Some famous musicians that played sitar
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There have been many famous musicians who have played the sitar, both in India and around the world. Here are a few examples:
1. Ravi Shankar: Shankar was one of the most famous sitar players of all time. He was a virtuoso musician and composer, and he played a major role in popularizing Indian classical music around the world.
2. Anoushka Shankar: Anoushka Shankar is Ravi Shankar's daughter, and she is also a highly accomplished sitar player. She has continued her father's legacy and has become a prominent figure in the world of Indian classical music.
3. Vilayat Khan: Vilayat Khan was a legendary sitar player who is often credited with introducing new techniques and styles to the instrument.
4. Nikhil Banerjee: Banerjee was another highly influential sitar player, known for his skill and virtuosity on the instrument.
5. Pandit Ravi Shankar's students: Shankar had many notable students who have gone on to become accomplished sitar players in their own right, including George Harrison of The Beatles, who learned to play sitar from Shankar and used the instrument in several of the band's songs.
These are just a few examples of the many talented sitar players who have left their mark on the world of music.
There are several large world music festivals that take place around the world. Here are some of the largest ones:
- WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) - WOMAD is a festival that takes place in different countries around the world. It was founded by Peter Gabriel in 1982 and features a diverse range of music from different cultures and countries.
- Roskilde Festival - Roskilde is a music festival held annually in Denmark. While it features a wide range of music genres, it also has a strong focus on world music, featuring acts from all over the world.
- Sziget Festival - Sziget is a music festival held annually in Budapest, Hungary. It is one of the largest music festivals in Europe, with over 500,000 visitors in recent years. While it features mostly rock, pop, and electronic music, it also has a World Music Stage that showcases a variety of music from different cultures.
- Womex (World Music Expo) - Womex is a trade fair and music festival that takes place annually in different locations around the world. It features concerts, conferences, and showcases of world music from different regions.
- Rainforest World Music Festival - Rainforest World Music Festival is an annual music festival held in Sarawak, Malaysia. It features a variety of world music genres and aims to promote the preservation of the rainforest and indigenous cultures.
- Gnaoua World Music Festival - The Gnaoua World Music Festival is held annually in Essaouira, Morocco. It features a variety of music genres but focuses on Gnaoua music, a traditional African style with roots in Morocco.
- Festival au Desert - Festival au Desert is an annual music festival held in Timbuktu, Mali. It features a variety of world music styles, including traditional African music, blues, and rock.
These are just a few examples of the largest world music festivals, but there are many others held around the world that showcase the diversity of music and cultures from different regions.
- WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) - WOMAD is a festival that takes place in different countries around the world. It was founded by Peter Gabriel in 1982 and features a diverse range of music from different cultures and countries.
- Roskilde Festival - Roskilde is a music festival held annually in Denmark. While it features a wide range of music genres, it also has a strong focus on world music, featuring acts from all over the world.
- Sziget Festival - Sziget is a music festival held annually in Budapest, Hungary. It is one of the largest music festivals in Europe, with over 500,000 visitors in recent years. While it features mostly rock, pop, and electronic music, it also has a World Music Stage that showcases a variety of music from different cultures.
- Womex (World Music Expo) - Womex is a trade fair and music festival that takes place annually in different locations around the world. It features concerts, conferences, and showcases of world music from different regions.
- Rainforest World Music Festival - Rainforest World Music Festival is an annual music festival held in Sarawak, Malaysia. It features a variety of world music genres and aims to promote the preservation of the rainforest and indigenous cultures.
- Gnaoua World Music Festival - The Gnaoua World Music Festival is held annually in Essaouira, Morocco. It features a variety of music genres but focuses on Gnaoua music, a traditional African style with roots in Morocco.
- Festival au Desert - Festival au Desert is an annual music festival held in Timbuktu, Mali. It features a variety of world music styles, including traditional African music, blues, and rock.
These are just a few examples of the largest world music festivals, but there are many others held around the world that showcase the diversity of music and cultures from different regions.
The term "World Music" has been the subject of controversy and criticism, particularly in academic and music industry circles.
One major critique of the term is that it is too broad and vague, and can be seen as a label that exoticizes and homogenizes non-Western music. Some argue that "World Music" creates a false binary between "Western" and "non-Western" music, and that the term reinforces stereotypes about certain cultures and musical styles.
In addition, some critics argue that the use of "World Music" as a category is primarily a marketing tool used by the music industry to sell music from other cultures to a Western audience. This has led some to argue that the term perpetuates unequal power relations and economic exploitation within the global music industry.
As a result of these critiques, some music scholars and organizations have moved away from using the term "World Music" and instead use more specific descriptors to refer to different musical styles and traditions from around the world.
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What other terms can be used to define world music?
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Instead of using the broad term "World Music," more specific and culturally sensitive terms can be used to describe music from different regions of the world. Some alternative terms include:
- Global Music: This term is often used as a more neutral alternative to "World Music" and can encompass music from a variety of cultures and regions.
- Ethnomusicology: This term refers to the study of music in its cultural context, and can be used to describe music from non-Western cultures.
Traditional Music: This term is used to describe music that is passed down through generations within a specific cultural or ethnic group.
- Folk Music: This term generally refers to the music of a particular region or ethnic group that has been passed down through generations, and is often associated with rural or agrarian cultures.
- Regional Music: This term can be used to describe music from a specific geographic region, such as Latin American music, African music, or Asian music.
- Indigenous Music: This term can be used to describe music created by and for Indigenous communities around the world, often rooted in traditional practices and cultural beliefs.
It is important to note that the most appropriate term to use will depend on the specific cultural and musical context, and it is always best to use language that is respectful and culturally sensitive.
One major critique of the term is that it is too broad and vague, and can be seen as a label that exoticizes and homogenizes non-Western music. Some argue that "World Music" creates a false binary between "Western" and "non-Western" music, and that the term reinforces stereotypes about certain cultures and musical styles.
In addition, some critics argue that the use of "World Music" as a category is primarily a marketing tool used by the music industry to sell music from other cultures to a Western audience. This has led some to argue that the term perpetuates unequal power relations and economic exploitation within the global music industry.
As a result of these critiques, some music scholars and organizations have moved away from using the term "World Music" and instead use more specific descriptors to refer to different musical styles and traditions from around the world.
---
What other terms can be used to define world music?
---
Instead of using the broad term "World Music," more specific and culturally sensitive terms can be used to describe music from different regions of the world. Some alternative terms include:
- Global Music: This term is often used as a more neutral alternative to "World Music" and can encompass music from a variety of cultures and regions.
- Ethnomusicology: This term refers to the study of music in its cultural context, and can be used to describe music from non-Western cultures.
Traditional Music: This term is used to describe music that is passed down through generations within a specific cultural or ethnic group.
- Folk Music: This term generally refers to the music of a particular region or ethnic group that has been passed down through generations, and is often associated with rural or agrarian cultures.
- Regional Music: This term can be used to describe music from a specific geographic region, such as Latin American music, African music, or Asian music.
- Indigenous Music: This term can be used to describe music created by and for Indigenous communities around the world, often rooted in traditional practices and cultural beliefs.
It is important to note that the most appropriate term to use will depend on the specific cultural and musical context, and it is always best to use language that is respectful and culturally sensitive.
There's no more epic and whole thinking songs, where every detail has its own definition, that's what I am aiming for; that's why I decided that I'll include a whole explanation for the songs that I will release in the next months, to make this practice great again.
Now that you can dig deeper into my music's view, I encourage you to hear my new demo: 'Bereshit', where everything is full detailed, evry note has an essence, and talks us about how the Universe was created, from the Hebrew's cosmogony.
World music is a broad term that refers to a wide range of musical styles and genres that originate from various cultures around the world. It is often used to describe music that is traditional or indigenous to a particular region, but it can also include music that blends different styles and influences.
World music can include a diverse range of instruments, rhythms, and vocal styles, and often incorporates unique cultural elements that are specific to the region or community from which the music originates. Some examples of world music genres include African music, Indian classical music, Middle Eastern music, Latin American music, and Celtic music, among many others.
World music has gained popularity and recognition in recent years, as artists and musicians have increasingly blended and experimented with different musical styles and cultural influences, creating unique and innovative sounds that draw from a variety of sources.
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Example of world music genres
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There are many examples of world music genres, each with their own unique characteristics and cultural significance. Here are a few examples:
African music: This includes traditional music from many different countries in Africa, such as West African highlife and Afrobeat, South African mbaqanga and township jazz, and East African benga and taarab.
Indian classical music: This is a genre of classical music that is specific to India and has a rich history and tradition dating back thousands of years. It includes many different styles and sub-genres, such as Hindustani classical music and Carnatic classical music.
Middle Eastern music: This encompasses music from countries such as Egypt, Iran, Turkey, and Lebanon, and features unique instruments like the oud, qanun, and ney. Popular sub-genres include Arabic pop and traditional music.
Latin American music: This includes a wide range of musical styles from different countries in Latin America, such as salsa, reggaeton, tango, and samba.
Celtic music: This is a genre of traditional music from Ireland, Scotland, and other countries in the Celtic regions of Europe. It features instruments such as the fiddle, bagpipes, and bodhran, and includes sub-genres such as Irish traditional music and Scottish folk music.
These are just a few examples of world music genres, and there are many more styles and sub-genres that are unique to different regions and cultures around the world.
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Famous world music artists
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There are many famous world music artists who have made significant contributions to the genre and helped to popularize it around the world. Here are some examples:
Miriam Makeba - a South African singer and political activist known as "Mama Africa" who popularized African music around the world.
Ravi Shankar - an Indian sitar player and composer who helped to introduce Indian classical music to Western audiences and collaborated with many famous musicians, including The Beatles.
Ali Farka Touré - a Malian guitarist and singer who is known for his unique blend of traditional African music and blues.
Youssou N'Dour - a Senegalese singer and songwriter who has been called the "king of African pop" and has collaborated with many famous musicians, including Peter Gabriel.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan - a Pakistani musician who was known for his powerful qawwali singing, a type of devotional music popular in South Asia.
Buena Vista Social Club - a group of Cuban musicians who were brought together by American musician Ry Cooder and achieved international fame for their traditional Cuban music.
Loreena McKennitt - a Canadian singer and composer who has blended Celtic, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean influences into her music.
These are just a few examples of famous world music artists, and there are many more musicians who have made important contributions to the genre.
World music can include a diverse range of instruments, rhythms, and vocal styles, and often incorporates unique cultural elements that are specific to the region or community from which the music originates. Some examples of world music genres include African music, Indian classical music, Middle Eastern music, Latin American music, and Celtic music, among many others.
World music has gained popularity and recognition in recent years, as artists and musicians have increasingly blended and experimented with different musical styles and cultural influences, creating unique and innovative sounds that draw from a variety of sources.
---
Example of world music genres
---
There are many examples of world music genres, each with their own unique characteristics and cultural significance. Here are a few examples:
African music: This includes traditional music from many different countries in Africa, such as West African highlife and Afrobeat, South African mbaqanga and township jazz, and East African benga and taarab.
Indian classical music: This is a genre of classical music that is specific to India and has a rich history and tradition dating back thousands of years. It includes many different styles and sub-genres, such as Hindustani classical music and Carnatic classical music.
Middle Eastern music: This encompasses music from countries such as Egypt, Iran, Turkey, and Lebanon, and features unique instruments like the oud, qanun, and ney. Popular sub-genres include Arabic pop and traditional music.
Latin American music: This includes a wide range of musical styles from different countries in Latin America, such as salsa, reggaeton, tango, and samba.
Celtic music: This is a genre of traditional music from Ireland, Scotland, and other countries in the Celtic regions of Europe. It features instruments such as the fiddle, bagpipes, and bodhran, and includes sub-genres such as Irish traditional music and Scottish folk music.
These are just a few examples of world music genres, and there are many more styles and sub-genres that are unique to different regions and cultures around the world.
---
Famous world music artists
---
There are many famous world music artists who have made significant contributions to the genre and helped to popularize it around the world. Here are some examples:
Miriam Makeba - a South African singer and political activist known as "Mama Africa" who popularized African music around the world.
Ravi Shankar - an Indian sitar player and composer who helped to introduce Indian classical music to Western audiences and collaborated with many famous musicians, including The Beatles.
Ali Farka Touré - a Malian guitarist and singer who is known for his unique blend of traditional African music and blues.
Youssou N'Dour - a Senegalese singer and songwriter who has been called the "king of African pop" and has collaborated with many famous musicians, including Peter Gabriel.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan - a Pakistani musician who was known for his powerful qawwali singing, a type of devotional music popular in South Asia.
Buena Vista Social Club - a group of Cuban musicians who were brought together by American musician Ry Cooder and achieved international fame for their traditional Cuban music.
Loreena McKennitt - a Canadian singer and composer who has blended Celtic, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean influences into her music.
These are just a few examples of famous world music artists, and there are many more musicians who have made important contributions to the genre.
So, the BRIT Awards came and went, providing the occasional high, several lows,
incoherent speeches, silly outfits, a surfeit of alcohol and vacuous answers to
equally dull questions. Last week I wrote about the under-representation of women
in the list of 2022 UK top selling acts, and thereby BRIT nominations, fuelled by
a big gender disparity within major UK record label signings. Fear not, there are
plenty of emerging female artistes who may one day help redress this bias and
again this week’s column is almost, though not quite, fully female populated.
Briefly back to the BRITs, I was pleased that Becky Hill won Best Dance Act and
sorry that First Aid Kit missed out on International Group of the Year. I remain
a tad perplexed by the hype around Wet Leg and sceptical as to whether many of
the songs aired throughout the evening would stand any test of time. Mind you Harry
Styles is one class act and performances by both Lewis Capaldi and Cat Burns kept
it simple and real. When confronted by an enormous list of songwriters for the new
breed of ‘manufactured’ pop songs, I ponder what happened to the classic Goffin-King
style partnerships. According to Sam Smith, “Unholy” is a song about “liberating
oneself from the clutches of others’ secrets.” I’m not sure why it took seven
people to write it. Maybe some of them need to be liberated from the
process themselves.
Now to a name recognisable to Fifty3 Fridays aficionados yet in an unfamiliar
guise. London-based, Tel Aviv-born singer-songwriter and pianist Florie Namir brings
a wonderfully vibrant blend of 1940’s American jazz vocal stylings to her classic
pop music influences. For her latest release, Florie has teamed up with afroelectric
artiste, Franck Biyong. The pair met through the Beyond Music platform founded by
Tina Turner which sets out to connect musicians from all kinds of genres worldwide.
Inspired to create new music, they were quick to produce “Silence Is Music” composed
by Franck who also wrote most of the lyrics, with Florie contributing the final verse.
“Silence Is Music” was put together in just 11 days, taking its creators in different
directions from their usual paths, while integrating their individual styles and
influences. The instrumentation includes parts added remotely by Canadian cellist
Tess Crowther and Argentinian double bass player Lila Horovitz. The song is a gently
hypnotic reflection on conflict and its damaging potential with an underlying message
of hope and relief. It has an organic and airy feel driven by acoustic instrumentation
complemented by African drums and given subtle weight by some choice background
electronic sounds. Vocally Franck and Florie add a serenity and calm to the imagery
of conflict and prepare the way for the note of hope struck in the final verse.
Weathering the Storm is the highly-anticipated third collaboration by electronic ambient veteran Craig Padilla and guitar virtuoso Marvin Allen, on Spotted Peccary Music (SPM). Like their two prior releases, Toward the Horizon and Strange Gravity, this latest project - the third of a trilogy - sees Padilla and Allen building a dreamlike and dramatic electronic music landscape that only they could create together. Fans of Tangerine Dream, YES, and Klaus Schulze will find plenty of new sounds to love. Weathering the Storm is out now; listen or buy at https://orcd.co/weathering-the-storm, on SpottedPeccary.com and on Bandcamp at https://padilla-allen.bandcamp.com/.
The two deeply committed composers of this album say that this is an homage to krautrock, which is a historic term endowed by British music critics in the 1970s, trying to understand the powerful but very strange electronic music created by some German artists who were discovering their own sound. They needed to find a new sound that served as an alternative to the relentless American Hits pop sound that was always overwhelming their radios, day and night, everywhere across the land, nothing but American pop. And thus krautrock was born.
The bands resulting from this amazing time might include Ash Ra Tempel, Tangerine Dream, Yes, ELP, Utopia, Can, Faust, Neu, Cluster, Klaus Schulze, and so many more, and there has always been plenty to talk about. Usually the discussion is over who is too commercial, or what songs are actual classics, and what is pure. The krautrock sound is truly unique, with long meditative electronic vibrations that really do seem to come from another planet. There is an extraterrestrial form to the constantly developing styles of electronic music, and my guess is that the unwritten big rule is that nothing requires conforming to any formulas except maybe the notion of a musical journey through strange electronica with plenty of subtle references to traditional classical or instrumental folk music. After all these years, we all still like dramatic musical stories, or maybe just soaring wordlessly as the sequencers lead the way, considering time and space, stars, planets, cells, atoms, souls, and how everything has a consequence for simply being here. They say that we are connected beyond ourselves. These musical performances were in massive 1970's stadium scale concerts, where there were vibrating young people from wall to wall. We still are always one with Time and Space, and connecting with a tradition of contemplative sound experience whose roots are ancient and diverse. This always makes for a jolly proper interstellar good time.
Padilla reflects on the creation of Weathering the Storm:
“In 2019, Keith Jones at Fruits de Mer Records (UK) had commissioned me and Marvin to contribute a track to a limited edition double LP compilation album that was dedicated to the Kosmiche Music of pre-1975. We were excited about the idea to create new music that was rooted in the past and immediately began making music.
"Marvin and I used very little studio trickery and went "old school" with the first few songs that we recorded; The 19+ minute track "The Prodigal Sun" is an homage to pre-'75 Berlin-school / Krautrock music. Marvin played some rhythm guitar in the style of the opening track of Edgar Froese's "Macula Transfer" album ("Chug chug chug chug") to complement the main sequence, and overdubbed some lead guitar. I used an organ sound and my analog modular synth, and some old-school effects, much like the musicians of that time would have used. We sent a bare bones mix to Keith, but he opted not to use this song.
"We had recorded another tribute to early krautrock/kosmiche music titled "Weathering the Storm" (now the title track of the new album). I played a mellotron sound and analog synthesizers while Marvin played some melodies on an electric guitar and plucked a 12-string acoustic guitar in sync with synthesizer sequencer patterns, creating an organically hypnotic effect in the music. (Keith chose this song for the limited edition bonus CD for "Head in the Clouds.")
"The creative wave continued, and we recorded an atmospheric song titled "Aquatic" which was meant to be a tribute to Edgar Froese's 1974 title track to the album Aqua. This song contains sounds of the rain and thunder that Marvin recorded during a night that we had our first ever tornado warning in our area! The tornado never completely formed, but the overhead cloud funnel and the winds and rain made for a truly unique weather event! Marvin said "I like to use found sounds and I didn't want to let this opportunity to record the storm pass me by." This storm system yielded great results for the audio. (And various images of this storm were submitted to Daniel Pipitone for his consideration to use for the cover art.) We recorded our tribute to Aqua by using recorded rain, reverse piano, organ, and bubbly/chirpy synth sounds. Like the end of "Aqua" (the song), "Aquatic" finally ends with some trippy sounds to close out the piece. The roaring engines of big trucks passing by on a wet road reminds me of the jets flying by on the third track of Froese's "Aqua" album, "NGC 891." (This song was chosen for the Fruits de Mer compilation double LP album "Head in the Clouds.")
"At this point, I had gone back to listen to "The Prodigal Sun," and felt that it should be updated with more modern sounds and percussion, which Marvin agreed would be appropriate. Once we had finished this song, we knew that we had enough music for half an album. Once again, the waves of inspiration hit us to move forward with our more modernized abilities while still being inspired by the electronic music of pre-1975.
"And then suddenly, the pandemic gave us a new perspective on how we were going to finish the album.
"The track 'Sunflowers in the Wind' was commissioned by Chuck van Zyl for a special "pandemic edition" of Star's End Radio which featured new music by artists who were staying busy during that time. Marvin had written the original melody and recorded the guitar track in my studio. With all of the turmoil happening, I had forgotten about it until he reminded me to check it out again. I was so impressed by its beauty; I jumped at the chance to add synths to it. Marvin says, "It's dedicated to Paula Franke (a foreign exchange student from Germany who was staying with the Padilla family) and her "sisters" Melodee and Harmonee Padilla. For me, the title symbolizes these young ladies. Although the winds of this turbulent time blow around them, their roots will help them to stand strong. In the end, when the wind subsides, they will still be reaching upwards towards the sun and continue to grow."
"The rest of the album came to fruition during the pandemic, which we feel assisted us in the way that we concluded the album. We knew that this was going to be more than an homage to the early 70's sound. It is music that honors life. With the collaborative assistance from graphic artist Daniel Pipitone, it's another soundtrack album for the continuing story of the "Umbrella Girl" who represents all of us looking for our own way of existence in this complex world."
The trilogy continues… The winds blow, the beast calls, the forces gather, and from there things go deep, "The Prodigal Sun" (18:54), at an epic (almost) 19 minutes, the title has lots of references, including the Sun-Son ionic duality, which gives another set of layers to the mix. Note that this is the longest track on the album, almost nineteen minutes. The journey of course is epic, starting from the deepest mysteries of outer space, and then you notice that there is a new beat, and there is another array of layers of the expressive guitar. There is space activity that continues to discover new ideas, building across the frightening vertiginous depths and dodging the presence of gigantic flying objects overhead. "A Matter of Time Part 1" (3:02) might be a story of chronological reinterpretations. Also, since this is Part 1, there must be more. What I hear is a twelve string guitar reaching into swirling electronica and leading up to a dramatic meltdown or sustained explosion, the distances are almost lost while the details keep things interesting. "Aquatic" (7:44) has more natural elements and some interesting sounds woven into the mix, at times heavy rainfall blending with signals from Atlantis, so dark and deep and full. I think that I hear the majestic space beetles calling from the maelstrom. Evidenced by the strange times and weather we are now living through, the heavy rainfall themes might have a more terrifying effect than ever before, a potent reminder of experiencing any flood or water cataclysm.
During the time when they were recording their tribute to Edgar Froese's 1974 title track to the album Aqua, Marvin and Craig both received urgent EBS text messages for a tornado warning, and watched the funnel cloud forming, and then getting lost in the beauty of it before realizing the smart thing to do. Seek shelter? Craig calmly replies, “Marvin had the wherewithal to take his recording equipment out and capture the weather sounds.” The tornado never completely formed, but the overhead cloud funnel and the winds and rain yielded a truly unique track.
The song "Sunflowers in the Wind" (4:37) sounds like a bright sunny sky, fine guitar notes enter the crystal silence, feeding on their echoes and slowly propelling the movement into what becomes a virtual synthesized tornado, as the title track, "Weathering the Storm" (10:12), begins and continues cautiously. You know that something big is going to happen, a building sense of some kind of dangerous natural phenomenon that is ultimately clarifying. Do I hear the sweet lamentations of mermaids? I hear mythological rumblings of thunder, through multiple breezes of mist, a beautiful spectral environment which flows among dramatic effects and silvered iridescent floating shadows, continued with the twelve-string guitar soaring through space together with the varied sweeps, at times unbelievably mind blowing. The next track brings a superb hypnotic sequential movement, an acoustic guitar in deep space, "A Matter of Time part 2" (1:46).
For many centuries, outer space, with its infinite number of galaxies, stars, moons and planets, has been an inspiration to the arts. "Onwards and Upwards" (8:59) reaches into a strange and vast territory. Imagine that the reverberation is an instrument. You can feel the power and wonder abound, guitar and drone abide, now enter the piano. Now bring on a new pulse. Life is good. The final track on this aural odyssey is titled "Liquid Heaven part 2" (5:55), I hear evidence of a link between the sequential spheres, and imagine that we are riding on subtle nuances and sequenced progressions, until we might be eventually stirring in the dream of the crystal shadows, which dance as angels pass by on a delicate crystalline structure, circular and catchy, a pure jewel of the dream crown. To me, listening constantly, the feeling is blissful, floating out there encircled by magnificent howling synths which move in the sky and fill the air, this is a long atmospheric episode.
The borders of conceivable electronic music have just been re-extended yet deeper into uncharted territory, with Weathering the Storm, the slow strata are all in contrast with the rhythm of strange metallic and spectral winds. Find your bliss in the rhythm and the celestial harmonies of each phenomenal journey with early psychedelia and unparalleled use of sequencers, revisiting the 1970's electronic technology into that old place where there is no up or down, there is only near and far, a series of explorations of distant territories, and winning combinations of burning electric guitar craft with icy synthetics.
The album premiered two weeks ago on Star's End Radio hosted by Chuck Van Zyl, who also reviewed the album, noting, "With each passing piece we become exposed to different intensities of mood and variations in tone. From bright motion-filled sonic landscapes and blissed-out plush textures, to overcast hollows of twilight realms, Padilla and Allen guide us safely through their well-crafted thought zones. Moving between the soothing, the unsettling, and the fiery, Weathering the Storm coaxes raindrops of melodic narrative from storm clouds of harmonic drama – playing out as a thousand beautiful dreams burn softly within."
The album is not only a trilogy in sonic stylings, but also in visual storytelling; all three of Padilla and Allen’s collaborations feature the iconic Umbrella Girl on the cover. Theories abound, but one might say she represents all of us looking for our own way of existence amidst the chaos of the world. She is an open-minded seeker, and these soundscapes are her explorations. The artists will discuss the concept alongside Daniel Pipitone, Spotted Peccary's creative design chief, on an upcoming podcast episode of Tones and Drones.
All music on Weathering the Storm was composed, performed and produced by Craig Padilla (synthesizers, sequencers, and drum programming) and Marvin Allen (guitars and homemade Theremin); it was recorded and mixed by Craig Padilla.
Mastered by Ben Cox, the album is available as a physical CD with creative design by Daniel Pipitone, and, as 24-BIT Audiophile, CD Quality Lossless Download, and MP3 streaming formats that can be found at https://orcd.co/weathering-the-storm. CD formats are available at Amazon, SpottedPeccary.com, and https://ambientelectronic.bandcamp.com/
Spotted Peccary Music will live stream Weathering the Storm throughout the day of release on its 24-7-365 streaming and live chat channel SPMLive: https://linktr.ee/ambientelectronic.tv
For artist interviews, reviews, or promotional requests, please contact Beth Ann Hilton at beth(at)spottedpeccary(dot)com.
Tracklist
1 The Prodigal Sun 18:55
2 A Matter of Time Part 1 3:03
3 Aquatic 7:45
4 Sunflowers in the Wind 4:37
5 Weathering the Storm 10:12
6 A Matter of Time Part 2 1:46
7 Onwards and Upwards 8:59
8 Liquid Heaven Part 2 5:56
About the Artists:
With more than 40 releases over the course of his prolific career, Craig Padilla has proven to be a driving force in the current electronic music scene. Never letting technology overcome the humanity in his compositions, he creates electronic music that is rooted in tradition while still sounding new, interesting and fresh. Craig has always endeavored to create engaging musical landscapes as experiences to be treasured and played indefinitely.
Marvin Allen is a northern California based multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, performer, and music educator. As an accomplished musician, he has lent his talents to numerous jingles, recording sessions, and short film soundtracks for many years. He also co-founded the Shasta Blues Society and continues to mentor many talented youth. https://spottedpeccary.com/artists/craig-padilla-and-marvin-allen/
Portland-based Spotted Peccary Music is North America’s finest independent record label with a focus on deep, vast and introspective soundscapes. For over three decades, the artists of Spotted Peccary have been on a mission to develop, produce, publish and release ultra-high-quality, deep-listening experiences that engage the listener and exceed expectations. Every release is carefully prepared in a variety of high quality formats from MP3 to high-res studio masters. Explore more than 165 titles and 45 artists released over 37 years of excellence at www.SpottedPeccary.com and www.AmbientElectronic.com.
Links:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0RUIIas98bKd2qpu4ITrlu?si=tUyzGkdbSsySkXAsQ2Ftwg
Smartlink to various platforms: https://orcd.co/weathering-the-storm
Spotted Peccary Album Page: https://spottedpeccary.com/shop/weathering-the-storm/
Bandcamp: https://ambientelectronic.bandcamp.com/
The two deeply committed composers of this album say that this is an homage to krautrock, which is a historic term endowed by British music critics in the 1970s, trying to understand the powerful but very strange electronic music created by some German artists who were discovering their own sound. They needed to find a new sound that served as an alternative to the relentless American Hits pop sound that was always overwhelming their radios, day and night, everywhere across the land, nothing but American pop. And thus krautrock was born.
The bands resulting from this amazing time might include Ash Ra Tempel, Tangerine Dream, Yes, ELP, Utopia, Can, Faust, Neu, Cluster, Klaus Schulze, and so many more, and there has always been plenty to talk about. Usually the discussion is over who is too commercial, or what songs are actual classics, and what is pure. The krautrock sound is truly unique, with long meditative electronic vibrations that really do seem to come from another planet. There is an extraterrestrial form to the constantly developing styles of electronic music, and my guess is that the unwritten big rule is that nothing requires conforming to any formulas except maybe the notion of a musical journey through strange electronica with plenty of subtle references to traditional classical or instrumental folk music. After all these years, we all still like dramatic musical stories, or maybe just soaring wordlessly as the sequencers lead the way, considering time and space, stars, planets, cells, atoms, souls, and how everything has a consequence for simply being here. They say that we are connected beyond ourselves. These musical performances were in massive 1970's stadium scale concerts, where there were vibrating young people from wall to wall. We still are always one with Time and Space, and connecting with a tradition of contemplative sound experience whose roots are ancient and diverse. This always makes for a jolly proper interstellar good time.
Padilla reflects on the creation of Weathering the Storm:
“In 2019, Keith Jones at Fruits de Mer Records (UK) had commissioned me and Marvin to contribute a track to a limited edition double LP compilation album that was dedicated to the Kosmiche Music of pre-1975. We were excited about the idea to create new music that was rooted in the past and immediately began making music.
"Marvin and I used very little studio trickery and went "old school" with the first few songs that we recorded; The 19+ minute track "The Prodigal Sun" is an homage to pre-'75 Berlin-school / Krautrock music. Marvin played some rhythm guitar in the style of the opening track of Edgar Froese's "Macula Transfer" album ("Chug chug chug chug") to complement the main sequence, and overdubbed some lead guitar. I used an organ sound and my analog modular synth, and some old-school effects, much like the musicians of that time would have used. We sent a bare bones mix to Keith, but he opted not to use this song.
"We had recorded another tribute to early krautrock/kosmiche music titled "Weathering the Storm" (now the title track of the new album). I played a mellotron sound and analog synthesizers while Marvin played some melodies on an electric guitar and plucked a 12-string acoustic guitar in sync with synthesizer sequencer patterns, creating an organically hypnotic effect in the music. (Keith chose this song for the limited edition bonus CD for "Head in the Clouds.")
"The creative wave continued, and we recorded an atmospheric song titled "Aquatic" which was meant to be a tribute to Edgar Froese's 1974 title track to the album Aqua. This song contains sounds of the rain and thunder that Marvin recorded during a night that we had our first ever tornado warning in our area! The tornado never completely formed, but the overhead cloud funnel and the winds and rain made for a truly unique weather event! Marvin said "I like to use found sounds and I didn't want to let this opportunity to record the storm pass me by." This storm system yielded great results for the audio. (And various images of this storm were submitted to Daniel Pipitone for his consideration to use for the cover art.) We recorded our tribute to Aqua by using recorded rain, reverse piano, organ, and bubbly/chirpy synth sounds. Like the end of "Aqua" (the song), "Aquatic" finally ends with some trippy sounds to close out the piece. The roaring engines of big trucks passing by on a wet road reminds me of the jets flying by on the third track of Froese's "Aqua" album, "NGC 891." (This song was chosen for the Fruits de Mer compilation double LP album "Head in the Clouds.")
"At this point, I had gone back to listen to "The Prodigal Sun," and felt that it should be updated with more modern sounds and percussion, which Marvin agreed would be appropriate. Once we had finished this song, we knew that we had enough music for half an album. Once again, the waves of inspiration hit us to move forward with our more modernized abilities while still being inspired by the electronic music of pre-1975.
"And then suddenly, the pandemic gave us a new perspective on how we were going to finish the album.
"The track 'Sunflowers in the Wind' was commissioned by Chuck van Zyl for a special "pandemic edition" of Star's End Radio which featured new music by artists who were staying busy during that time. Marvin had written the original melody and recorded the guitar track in my studio. With all of the turmoil happening, I had forgotten about it until he reminded me to check it out again. I was so impressed by its beauty; I jumped at the chance to add synths to it. Marvin says, "It's dedicated to Paula Franke (a foreign exchange student from Germany who was staying with the Padilla family) and her "sisters" Melodee and Harmonee Padilla. For me, the title symbolizes these young ladies. Although the winds of this turbulent time blow around them, their roots will help them to stand strong. In the end, when the wind subsides, they will still be reaching upwards towards the sun and continue to grow."
"The rest of the album came to fruition during the pandemic, which we feel assisted us in the way that we concluded the album. We knew that this was going to be more than an homage to the early 70's sound. It is music that honors life. With the collaborative assistance from graphic artist Daniel Pipitone, it's another soundtrack album for the continuing story of the "Umbrella Girl" who represents all of us looking for our own way of existence in this complex world."
The trilogy continues… The winds blow, the beast calls, the forces gather, and from there things go deep, "The Prodigal Sun" (18:54), at an epic (almost) 19 minutes, the title has lots of references, including the Sun-Son ionic duality, which gives another set of layers to the mix. Note that this is the longest track on the album, almost nineteen minutes. The journey of course is epic, starting from the deepest mysteries of outer space, and then you notice that there is a new beat, and there is another array of layers of the expressive guitar. There is space activity that continues to discover new ideas, building across the frightening vertiginous depths and dodging the presence of gigantic flying objects overhead. "A Matter of Time Part 1" (3:02) might be a story of chronological reinterpretations. Also, since this is Part 1, there must be more. What I hear is a twelve string guitar reaching into swirling electronica and leading up to a dramatic meltdown or sustained explosion, the distances are almost lost while the details keep things interesting. "Aquatic" (7:44) has more natural elements and some interesting sounds woven into the mix, at times heavy rainfall blending with signals from Atlantis, so dark and deep and full. I think that I hear the majestic space beetles calling from the maelstrom. Evidenced by the strange times and weather we are now living through, the heavy rainfall themes might have a more terrifying effect than ever before, a potent reminder of experiencing any flood or water cataclysm.
During the time when they were recording their tribute to Edgar Froese's 1974 title track to the album Aqua, Marvin and Craig both received urgent EBS text messages for a tornado warning, and watched the funnel cloud forming, and then getting lost in the beauty of it before realizing the smart thing to do. Seek shelter? Craig calmly replies, “Marvin had the wherewithal to take his recording equipment out and capture the weather sounds.” The tornado never completely formed, but the overhead cloud funnel and the winds and rain yielded a truly unique track.
The song "Sunflowers in the Wind" (4:37) sounds like a bright sunny sky, fine guitar notes enter the crystal silence, feeding on their echoes and slowly propelling the movement into what becomes a virtual synthesized tornado, as the title track, "Weathering the Storm" (10:12), begins and continues cautiously. You know that something big is going to happen, a building sense of some kind of dangerous natural phenomenon that is ultimately clarifying. Do I hear the sweet lamentations of mermaids? I hear mythological rumblings of thunder, through multiple breezes of mist, a beautiful spectral environment which flows among dramatic effects and silvered iridescent floating shadows, continued with the twelve-string guitar soaring through space together with the varied sweeps, at times unbelievably mind blowing. The next track brings a superb hypnotic sequential movement, an acoustic guitar in deep space, "A Matter of Time part 2" (1:46).
For many centuries, outer space, with its infinite number of galaxies, stars, moons and planets, has been an inspiration to the arts. "Onwards and Upwards" (8:59) reaches into a strange and vast territory. Imagine that the reverberation is an instrument. You can feel the power and wonder abound, guitar and drone abide, now enter the piano. Now bring on a new pulse. Life is good. The final track on this aural odyssey is titled "Liquid Heaven part 2" (5:55), I hear evidence of a link between the sequential spheres, and imagine that we are riding on subtle nuances and sequenced progressions, until we might be eventually stirring in the dream of the crystal shadows, which dance as angels pass by on a delicate crystalline structure, circular and catchy, a pure jewel of the dream crown. To me, listening constantly, the feeling is blissful, floating out there encircled by magnificent howling synths which move in the sky and fill the air, this is a long atmospheric episode.
The borders of conceivable electronic music have just been re-extended yet deeper into uncharted territory, with Weathering the Storm, the slow strata are all in contrast with the rhythm of strange metallic and spectral winds. Find your bliss in the rhythm and the celestial harmonies of each phenomenal journey with early psychedelia and unparalleled use of sequencers, revisiting the 1970's electronic technology into that old place where there is no up or down, there is only near and far, a series of explorations of distant territories, and winning combinations of burning electric guitar craft with icy synthetics.
The album premiered two weeks ago on Star's End Radio hosted by Chuck Van Zyl, who also reviewed the album, noting, "With each passing piece we become exposed to different intensities of mood and variations in tone. From bright motion-filled sonic landscapes and blissed-out plush textures, to overcast hollows of twilight realms, Padilla and Allen guide us safely through their well-crafted thought zones. Moving between the soothing, the unsettling, and the fiery, Weathering the Storm coaxes raindrops of melodic narrative from storm clouds of harmonic drama – playing out as a thousand beautiful dreams burn softly within."
The album is not only a trilogy in sonic stylings, but also in visual storytelling; all three of Padilla and Allen’s collaborations feature the iconic Umbrella Girl on the cover. Theories abound, but one might say she represents all of us looking for our own way of existence amidst the chaos of the world. She is an open-minded seeker, and these soundscapes are her explorations. The artists will discuss the concept alongside Daniel Pipitone, Spotted Peccary's creative design chief, on an upcoming podcast episode of Tones and Drones.
All music on Weathering the Storm was composed, performed and produced by Craig Padilla (synthesizers, sequencers, and drum programming) and Marvin Allen (guitars and homemade Theremin); it was recorded and mixed by Craig Padilla.
Mastered by Ben Cox, the album is available as a physical CD with creative design by Daniel Pipitone, and, as 24-BIT Audiophile, CD Quality Lossless Download, and MP3 streaming formats that can be found at https://orcd.co/weathering-the-storm. CD formats are available at Amazon, SpottedPeccary.com, and https://ambientelectronic.bandcamp.com/
Spotted Peccary Music will live stream Weathering the Storm throughout the day of release on its 24-7-365 streaming and live chat channel SPMLive: https://linktr.ee/ambientelectronic.tv
For artist interviews, reviews, or promotional requests, please contact Beth Ann Hilton at beth(at)spottedpeccary(dot)com.
Tracklist
1 The Prodigal Sun 18:55
2 A Matter of Time Part 1 3:03
3 Aquatic 7:45
4 Sunflowers in the Wind 4:37
5 Weathering the Storm 10:12
6 A Matter of Time Part 2 1:46
7 Onwards and Upwards 8:59
8 Liquid Heaven Part 2 5:56
About the Artists:
With more than 40 releases over the course of his prolific career, Craig Padilla has proven to be a driving force in the current electronic music scene. Never letting technology overcome the humanity in his compositions, he creates electronic music that is rooted in tradition while still sounding new, interesting and fresh. Craig has always endeavored to create engaging musical landscapes as experiences to be treasured and played indefinitely.
Marvin Allen is a northern California based multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, performer, and music educator. As an accomplished musician, he has lent his talents to numerous jingles, recording sessions, and short film soundtracks for many years. He also co-founded the Shasta Blues Society and continues to mentor many talented youth. https://spottedpeccary.com/artists/craig-padilla-and-marvin-allen/
Portland-based Spotted Peccary Music is North America’s finest independent record label with a focus on deep, vast and introspective soundscapes. For over three decades, the artists of Spotted Peccary have been on a mission to develop, produce, publish and release ultra-high-quality, deep-listening experiences that engage the listener and exceed expectations. Every release is carefully prepared in a variety of high quality formats from MP3 to high-res studio masters. Explore more than 165 titles and 45 artists released over 37 years of excellence at www.SpottedPeccary.com and www.AmbientElectronic.com.
Links:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0RUIIas98bKd2qpu4ITrlu?si=tUyzGkdbSsySkXAsQ2Ftwg
Smartlink to various platforms: https://orcd.co/weathering-the-storm
Spotted Peccary Album Page: https://spottedpeccary.com/shop/weathering-the-storm/
Bandcamp: https://ambientelectronic.bandcamp.com/
Heaven is sometimes symbolically depicted as populated by angels playing harps, giving the instrument associations of the sacred and heavenly. The way we understand ourselves and our world is always evolving, harps have been known since antiquity in Mesopotamia, Persia, and Egypt, later in India and China. Distinct designs also emerged from the African continent, some resembling the form of harps in ancient Egypt with a hollow or vaulted body of wood, with a parchment face, and a neck, upon which the strings are wound. The strings are normally plucked with the fingers, and can be played standing or sitting, sometimes alone, sometimes accompanied by a friend or three, and sometimes harps are played with huge full orchestras. The classical harp's most common form is triangular in shape and made of wood. The oldest depictions of harps in Africa date back to the 4th Dynasty of Egypt. By medieval times harps had become familiar all across Europe.
The feeling of the new album Geodepédie - Hidden Light is based on the distinct sounds of the harp, as played by Christina Tourin, sometimes accompanied by vocals, sometimes with minimal percussion and synthesizers, and always celebrating harps, solo or in layers, powerful, soothing, sparkling, magically lyrical, eloquent, multi-faceted expressions, infused with the wisdom that comes from personal inquiry and a deep understanding of the universe. The feeling is very calming and relaxing, I would say positive and uplifting, sometimes crafted with traditional Gaelic styles, and sometimes blended with Cosmic seasonings, a comforting soundtrack to life’s ups and downs, illuminations, lamentations, revelations, full of significance and importance. Good for any and all forms of relaxation for most any occasion, for a wee listen.
Geodepédie - Hidden Light - Christina Tourin
https://christinatourin.hearnow.com/
As a Therapeutic Musician and Music Therapist, one of her main focuses is Convergence – finding facets of interest in spiritual enlightenment and in pursuit of mending body and spirit. Trained in performance both at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria and at McGill University in Montreal, Christina’s fascinating musical life has taken her around the world from Japan to Ireland, where she’s brought the National Instrument of the harp to blind children; she also served as a trained music therapist at the Blind Institute of San Diego. In addition, she performed for 17 years for the Von Trapp Family at their Austrian Chalet Lodge in Vermont, and has accompanied chorales, performed with symphonies and been part of ensembles in off Broadway theaters.
“With a twist on Erik Satie's Gymnopedie,” Tourin says, “I present Geodepédie! May we open ourselves to let light shine forth as with a beautiful geode!” The new album is a journey of peace and wonder, reflecting the boundless immensity of the earth and sky. The album releases worldwide today; listen on Spotify now at https://open.spotify.com/album/17eBvbTGbbl4Zk5TgHuv3d?si=mgCMZv-kRd6cNZag1_MWAg
The opening notes of Tourin’s self-produced album establish a warm sense of joy for life, ushering the listener into an uplifted state of being. Her music is based on the distinct sounds of the harp, sometimes accompanied by vocals, other times with minimal percussion, or just a hint of synthesizer. The musicians on the album include Christina Tourin (harp), Peter Sprague (guitar/synth), David Eastoe (synth), Suzanne Doucet (synth), Buvana Gerlach (vocals), Lies Joosten (Harp, Track 1).
With each track, Tourin strives for a sound that can transform lives, emotionally and spiritually. Listeners may imagine the shining inside of a newly-opened geode, while also picturing a crystalline night sky filled with glittering stars, planets and galaxies. The music, she says, creates a place to find the center of one’s being, allowing each listener to let go of tension and rise into the cumulus of their own imagination.
Healing with sound, performing, composing, teaching, and writing books round out Tourin’s full life. She is a Therapeutic Musician (TMus) and Music Therapist (MT), and one of the foremost leading educators of the harp, whose International Harp Therapy Program currently has training centers and Therapeutic Harp Practitioners from 32 countries serving on five continents.
Tourin's mission is bringing together all those who use music, sound and the arts for healing, enrichment and well-being. Living a life “as above so below,” she experiences the magnificent and transcendent in small but significant ways. As she says, “Expressing through music is not what I do, it’s who I am.”
The album was produced by Christina Tourin for her own Emerald Harp Productions, LLC, and recorded at SpragueLand Studios, Encinitas, CA; sound engineer was Peter Sprague. Cover design by Jaime Tourin, with liner notes by Jonathan Widran. Suzanne Doucet served as Creative Consultant. Physical CD distribution is being handled by CPI Distribution, and by New Leaf Distributing for specialty and gift stores.
See Christina perform live at a new album release concert in Phoenix, AZ. This will be a special duo performance with Ludwig Conistabile, a musician and Harp Therapist from Italy. Event details are as follows:
What: A Journey Into The Starry Skies - As Above So Below: World Renowned Harpist Christina Tourin debuts her new album "Geodepedie-Hidden Light"
When: Saturday, March 4, 7:30pm
Where: Phoenix Harp Center, 2700 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, Arizona 85004 (https://phoenixharpcenter.com/)
How: For details about joining online or in person, contact Jocelyn Obermeyer at 602.565.0522 or on Facebook messenger for more information.
TRACKS
01 Geodepédie Hidden Light (4:50)
02 Music Is Love (2:10)
03 Passacaglia - Handel's Healing Harp (5:00)
04 Brigid's Green Mantle (3:02)
05 Land O' The Leal (3:20)
06 Early One Morning (2:01)
07 Walk Through The Sunflowers (2:54)
08 Reminisce (3:57)
09 Sommarpsalm (1:37)
10 Icelandic Northern Lights (6:57)
11 Grieg's Morning Mood (1:46)
12 Largo - Vivaldi's Vision (3:38)
13 Arigatou, I For You (3:23)
14 Amethyst Of Avalon (3:28)
15 As Above So Below (8:39)
16 Colors Of The Season (2:56)
Buy/Stream Christina Tourin
GEODEPEDIE - HIDDEN LIGHT: https://christinatourin.hearnow.com/
Spotify: https://www.youtube.com/user/CTourin
Amazon CD Link: https://a.co/d/7SJmYRr
WEBSITE https://www.playharp.com/christinatourin/
INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/christinatourin
YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/@ctourin
FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/ctourin
The feeling of the new album Geodepédie - Hidden Light is based on the distinct sounds of the harp, as played by Christina Tourin, sometimes accompanied by vocals, sometimes with minimal percussion and synthesizers, and always celebrating harps, solo or in layers, powerful, soothing, sparkling, magically lyrical, eloquent, multi-faceted expressions, infused with the wisdom that comes from personal inquiry and a deep understanding of the universe. The feeling is very calming and relaxing, I would say positive and uplifting, sometimes crafted with traditional Gaelic styles, and sometimes blended with Cosmic seasonings, a comforting soundtrack to life’s ups and downs, illuminations, lamentations, revelations, full of significance and importance. Good for any and all forms of relaxation for most any occasion, for a wee listen.
Geodepédie - Hidden Light - Christina Tourin
https://christinatourin.hearnow.com/
As a Therapeutic Musician and Music Therapist, one of her main focuses is Convergence – finding facets of interest in spiritual enlightenment and in pursuit of mending body and spirit. Trained in performance both at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria and at McGill University in Montreal, Christina’s fascinating musical life has taken her around the world from Japan to Ireland, where she’s brought the National Instrument of the harp to blind children; she also served as a trained music therapist at the Blind Institute of San Diego. In addition, she performed for 17 years for the Von Trapp Family at their Austrian Chalet Lodge in Vermont, and has accompanied chorales, performed with symphonies and been part of ensembles in off Broadway theaters.
“With a twist on Erik Satie's Gymnopedie,” Tourin says, “I present Geodepédie! May we open ourselves to let light shine forth as with a beautiful geode!” The new album is a journey of peace and wonder, reflecting the boundless immensity of the earth and sky. The album releases worldwide today; listen on Spotify now at https://open.spotify.com/album/17eBvbTGbbl4Zk5TgHuv3d?si=mgCMZv-kRd6cNZag1_MWAg
The opening notes of Tourin’s self-produced album establish a warm sense of joy for life, ushering the listener into an uplifted state of being. Her music is based on the distinct sounds of the harp, sometimes accompanied by vocals, other times with minimal percussion, or just a hint of synthesizer. The musicians on the album include Christina Tourin (harp), Peter Sprague (guitar/synth), David Eastoe (synth), Suzanne Doucet (synth), Buvana Gerlach (vocals), Lies Joosten (Harp, Track 1).
With each track, Tourin strives for a sound that can transform lives, emotionally and spiritually. Listeners may imagine the shining inside of a newly-opened geode, while also picturing a crystalline night sky filled with glittering stars, planets and galaxies. The music, she says, creates a place to find the center of one’s being, allowing each listener to let go of tension and rise into the cumulus of their own imagination.
Healing with sound, performing, composing, teaching, and writing books round out Tourin’s full life. She is a Therapeutic Musician (TMus) and Music Therapist (MT), and one of the foremost leading educators of the harp, whose International Harp Therapy Program currently has training centers and Therapeutic Harp Practitioners from 32 countries serving on five continents.
Tourin's mission is bringing together all those who use music, sound and the arts for healing, enrichment and well-being. Living a life “as above so below,” she experiences the magnificent and transcendent in small but significant ways. As she says, “Expressing through music is not what I do, it’s who I am.”
The album was produced by Christina Tourin for her own Emerald Harp Productions, LLC, and recorded at SpragueLand Studios, Encinitas, CA; sound engineer was Peter Sprague. Cover design by Jaime Tourin, with liner notes by Jonathan Widran. Suzanne Doucet served as Creative Consultant. Physical CD distribution is being handled by CPI Distribution, and by New Leaf Distributing for specialty and gift stores.
See Christina perform live at a new album release concert in Phoenix, AZ. This will be a special duo performance with Ludwig Conistabile, a musician and Harp Therapist from Italy. Event details are as follows:
What: A Journey Into The Starry Skies - As Above So Below: World Renowned Harpist Christina Tourin debuts her new album "Geodepedie-Hidden Light"
When: Saturday, March 4, 7:30pm
Where: Phoenix Harp Center, 2700 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, Arizona 85004 (https://phoenixharpcenter.com/)
How: For details about joining online or in person, contact Jocelyn Obermeyer at 602.565.0522 or on Facebook messenger for more information.
TRACKS
01 Geodepédie Hidden Light (4:50)
02 Music Is Love (2:10)
03 Passacaglia - Handel's Healing Harp (5:00)
04 Brigid's Green Mantle (3:02)
05 Land O' The Leal (3:20)
06 Early One Morning (2:01)
07 Walk Through The Sunflowers (2:54)
08 Reminisce (3:57)
09 Sommarpsalm (1:37)
10 Icelandic Northern Lights (6:57)
11 Grieg's Morning Mood (1:46)
12 Largo - Vivaldi's Vision (3:38)
13 Arigatou, I For You (3:23)
14 Amethyst Of Avalon (3:28)
15 As Above So Below (8:39)
16 Colors Of The Season (2:56)
Buy/Stream Christina Tourin
GEODEPEDIE - HIDDEN LIGHT: https://christinatourin.hearnow.com/
Spotify: https://www.youtube.com/user/CTourin
Amazon CD Link: https://a.co/d/7SJmYRr
WEBSITE https://www.playharp.com/christinatourin/
INSTAGRAM http://instagram.com/christinatourin
YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/@ctourin
FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/ctourin
https://fvmusicblog.com/hot-picks-16-2-23-the-best-new-releases/
It’s #NEWRELEASEFRIDAY! We bring to you our hottest finds of the week. We have
urated a list of the best releases from our musical travels this week and are
putting them all in one place for your listing pleasure!
This coverage is created via #sustainablecurator
BRADLEY COPPER KETTLE & FRIENDS
Release: ‘Sleeve’
BRADLEY COPPER KETTLE & FRIENDS have released the brilliant Americana
single ‘Sleeve’. It is an addictive release with gorgeous harmonies,
excellent musicianship and stunning melodies. We can not wait to hear
what BRADLEY COPPER KETTLE & FRIENDS will do next!
SHANAY MORANT
Release: ‘Stay’
Hailing from New York, musician SHANAY MORANT is an artist that you
need to know about. Her single ‘Stay’ is a wonderful contemporary R&B
release that is fuelled by soulful vocals, stunning melodies and a warm,
inviting production. ‘Stay’ is a single that will have you reaching
for the repeat button!
FLORIE NAMIR/FRANCK BIYONG
Release: ‘Silence Is Music’
London-based artist FLORIE NAMIR has teamed up with musician Franck
Biyong to release the magnificent single ‘Silence Is Music’. It is an
inviting release that features addictive vocal performances, a memorable
chorus and stunning musicianship. ‘Silence Is Music’ needs to be heard
this February!
BETHAN LLOYD
Release: ‘No Umbilical’
Cardiff-based musician BETHAN LLOYD has released the brilliant single
‘No Umbilical’. It is an innovative alt-pop release with thought-provoking
lyrics, staccato nature and charismatic vocal performances. ‘No Umbilical’
needs to be added to your new music playlist this week!
LUDLOW CREEK
Release: ‘Sweet Celebration’
Hailing from Dayton, OH, the brilliant band LUDLOW CREEK are back with their
must-hear single ‘Sweet Celebration’. It is an uplifting Americana release
complete with compelling melodies, catchy chorus and excellent musicianship.
LUDLOW CREEK are destined for big things!
Artist: LETHIA’S NATORIUM
Release: ‘Inner Child’ (Tepilunia Soundscapes Version)
The excellent London-based musician LETHIA’S NATORIUM is back with her
atmospheric single ‘Inner Child’. We adore the soulful, layered vocals,
stunning backing instrumentation and intelligent arrangement. LETHIA’S
NATORIUM goes from strength-to-strength and we can not wait to hear
what will come next!
SAMANTHA GIBB
Release: ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’
SAMANTHA GIBB is back with a reworked version of her stunning single ‘Sorry,
Not Sorry’. Taken from the ‘Echoes: The Echo Sessions’, it features catchy hooks,
uplifting instrumentation and Gibbs’s soulful vocals. ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’ is a
single that you need to hear this February!
TERRY K 3TL
Release: ‘Songs For Old Men’
Canadian-based artist TERRY K 3TL has released the excellent track, ‘Songs For
Old Men’. It is a thought-provoking release with charming vocals, excellent
musicianship and warm production. TERRY K 3TL is a troubadour who needs
to be heard this Winter.
Artist: NORM BRUNET
Release: ‘So Long’
Ottawa-based musician NORM BRUNET needs to be heard. His single ‘So Long’
is an excellent classic-rock release with soulful vocals, enticing groove
and intelligent arrangement. ‘So Long’ is a track that will have you reaching
for the repeat button this February.
Artist: MOON AND ARIES
Release: ‘Break The Matrix (Episode Three)’
Hailing from Cologne, the brilliant band MOON AND ARIES are back with their
must-hear EP ‘Break The Matrix (Episode Three)’. It is an electronic-pop
release with punchy production, soulful vocals and excellent musicianship.
‘Break The Matrix (Episode Three)’ is a release you do not want to miss!
It’s #NEWRELEASEFRIDAY! We bring to you our hottest finds of the week. We have
urated a list of the best releases from our musical travels this week and are
putting them all in one place for your listing pleasure!
This coverage is created via #sustainablecurator
BRADLEY COPPER KETTLE & FRIENDS
Release: ‘Sleeve’
BRADLEY COPPER KETTLE & FRIENDS have released the brilliant Americana
single ‘Sleeve’. It is an addictive release with gorgeous harmonies,
excellent musicianship and stunning melodies. We can not wait to hear
what BRADLEY COPPER KETTLE & FRIENDS will do next!
SHANAY MORANT
Release: ‘Stay’
Hailing from New York, musician SHANAY MORANT is an artist that you
need to know about. Her single ‘Stay’ is a wonderful contemporary R&B
release that is fuelled by soulful vocals, stunning melodies and a warm,
inviting production. ‘Stay’ is a single that will have you reaching
for the repeat button!
FLORIE NAMIR/FRANCK BIYONG
Release: ‘Silence Is Music’
London-based artist FLORIE NAMIR has teamed up with musician Franck
Biyong to release the magnificent single ‘Silence Is Music’. It is an
inviting release that features addictive vocal performances, a memorable
chorus and stunning musicianship. ‘Silence Is Music’ needs to be heard
this February!
BETHAN LLOYD
Release: ‘No Umbilical’
Cardiff-based musician BETHAN LLOYD has released the brilliant single
‘No Umbilical’. It is an innovative alt-pop release with thought-provoking
lyrics, staccato nature and charismatic vocal performances. ‘No Umbilical’
needs to be added to your new music playlist this week!
LUDLOW CREEK
Release: ‘Sweet Celebration’
Hailing from Dayton, OH, the brilliant band LUDLOW CREEK are back with their
must-hear single ‘Sweet Celebration’. It is an uplifting Americana release
complete with compelling melodies, catchy chorus and excellent musicianship.
LUDLOW CREEK are destined for big things!
Artist: LETHIA’S NATORIUM
Release: ‘Inner Child’ (Tepilunia Soundscapes Version)
The excellent London-based musician LETHIA’S NATORIUM is back with her
atmospheric single ‘Inner Child’. We adore the soulful, layered vocals,
stunning backing instrumentation and intelligent arrangement. LETHIA’S
NATORIUM goes from strength-to-strength and we can not wait to hear
what will come next!
SAMANTHA GIBB
Release: ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’
SAMANTHA GIBB is back with a reworked version of her stunning single ‘Sorry,
Not Sorry’. Taken from the ‘Echoes: The Echo Sessions’, it features catchy hooks,
uplifting instrumentation and Gibbs’s soulful vocals. ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’ is a
single that you need to hear this February!
TERRY K 3TL
Release: ‘Songs For Old Men’
Canadian-based artist TERRY K 3TL has released the excellent track, ‘Songs For
Old Men’. It is a thought-provoking release with charming vocals, excellent
musicianship and warm production. TERRY K 3TL is a troubadour who needs
to be heard this Winter.
Artist: NORM BRUNET
Release: ‘So Long’
Ottawa-based musician NORM BRUNET needs to be heard. His single ‘So Long’
is an excellent classic-rock release with soulful vocals, enticing groove
and intelligent arrangement. ‘So Long’ is a track that will have you reaching
for the repeat button this February.
Artist: MOON AND ARIES
Release: ‘Break The Matrix (Episode Three)’
Hailing from Cologne, the brilliant band MOON AND ARIES are back with their
must-hear EP ‘Break The Matrix (Episode Three)’. It is an electronic-pop
release with punchy production, soulful vocals and excellent musicianship.
‘Break The Matrix (Episode Three)’ is a release you do not want to miss!
Comenzamos hoy AfricaPachanga con el album de debut de una fantástica banda
brasileña, formada exclusivamente por mujeres, Funmilayo Afrobeat Orquesta,
que rinden homenaje a la madre de Fela Kuti. Más novedades con Berikely &
Zama, desde Madagascar, y el guitarrista camerunés Franck Biyong, además
de la magnífica reedición de una banda nigeriana de edo funk, The Good
Samaritans.Además, el blues del desierto con Vieux Farka Toure, la música
del maliense Issa Bagayogo, el rapero de Burkina Fasso Smockey; y las
grandes orquestas africanas de los años 70 y 80, la Orchestra Makassy desde
Tanzania y la Orchestre Poly-Rythmo desde Benín. Disfruta de todos estos
músicos en AfricaPachanga, el único programa dedicado exclusivamente
a la música africana !!
Track List
Funmilayo Afrobeat - Ondina
Funmilayo Afrobeat - Para E Respira
Berikely & Zama - Mahavamba
The Good Samaritans - Onughara
Franck Biyong - Silence Is Music
Vieux Farka Toure - Ndjehene Direne
Issa Bagayogo - Sebero
Smockey - Ou Est L Erreur
Orchestra Makassy - Mambo Bado
Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonu - Ne Te Faches Pas
In jazz, it’s common practice to reimagine existing songs. Andrea’s inspiration to arrange this particular song was a desire to focus on the present. She chose to cover Weezer’s “Say It Ain’t So” to pay homage to a song that was part of the soundtrack of her younger days. It’s a song that many people from her generation know and love, which is why it was the perfect choice for her to revisit from a fresh perspective and different instrumentation.
This single will be followed by a full length album later this year, Oh Mother, of mostly original songs. It chronicles stories of motherhood, rooted in Andrea’s own experiences and those of over 50 mothers who so bravely shared their stories.
“I really enjoy the challenge of taking a song that’s meaningful to me and finding a new way to interpret it while still honouring the original,” says Andrea. “I love that a listener might not recognize the song at first. I love that a less adventurous listener might say, ‘Hey, maybe this kind of jazz is worth checking out.’ Weezer is the gateway drug to jazz!”
Listen in here:https://found.ee/AndreaSuperstein_SayItAintSo/ms-spotify-0
Florie Namir is back with a stunning ballad and a duet partner – Franck Biyong. Their voices
are very different, Frank has a soulful touch whereas Florie’s vocals are suited to folk/jazz
but they find a middle ground, and this song is a perfect vehicle for this.
It’s an acoustic number, the percussion is gorgeous, something that tends to get buried just
for ear candy but everything in this track has a purpose… hold up is that a tabla? Nice!
And the string arrangement is beautiful too.
The harmonies that are used here are what caught my ear initially, and that’s my favourite
part of the song, Florie and Franck’s ability to just meld together makes me want to give
them a round of applause.
The chorus lyrics for me is what gets me:
“Silence is music
Silently dreaming
Silence is music
Silently breathing
Silence is music
And the moon can find a place within a song
And the moon can find a place within a song.”
Florie Namir is a Tel Aviv-born singer-songwriter and pianist who offers a refreshingly
vibrant blend of 1940’s American jazz vocal stylings fused with classic pop music
influences. BBC Introducing artist and winner of the UK Songwriting Contest.
Cameroonian musician Franck Biyong, leader of the band Massak, is the creator of the
“Afrolectric” sound. Afrolectric weds Afrobeat to vanguard jazz and electro-driven funk.
I believe everyone who has been in conflict with someone, particularly a loved one, has
experienced the smothering silence. No more words get exchanged at this point, and so it
envelops you, making you feel bad. It’s in these moments when it’s important to remember
that the easiest way to resolve the conflict is going in to talk with the person – from
that point forward, the silence becomes music.
Acoustic and warm, the song called “Silence is Music” is smooth and soothing, just like
the warm embrace after a bad argument is settled. Soft guitar melodies, jazzy percussion,
and quiet vocals build up a calm, soulful atmosphere, where hope and gratitude can bloom
comfortably, and there is no more space left for hurting feelings. “Silence is Music” is
a serene ode for nourishing dialogue and self-acceptance, setting itself as a reminder
that the best way to overcome the crushing bad feelings is reaching out.
Florie’s tender vocals are joined by those of Franck Biyong, a Cameroonian guitarist.
The duo co-wrote the song, aiming to bring out the anxious feeling so common in such
situations, and using delicate instrumentation as well as their singing voices to
produce a layer of solace. Magical strings were added to the mix by Argentinian
double bass player Lila Horovitz and Canadian cellist Tess Crowther.
“Silence is Music” is out now on your favorite platforms – give it a listen today!
https://open.spotify.com/album/00WPTjitBqhaJwa3Y4U923
Along with his co-producer, mix engineer and keyboardist Gabriel Ethier (Garou, Azam Ali, Niyaz) TEROUZ carefully crafts his songs into intimate capsules, where one is intoxicatingly swayed to dive deeper into his cinematic stories.
“Tiger Girl” is a testament to resilient women and the empowering effects they have on others.
Stream the new single now:
https://s.disco.ac/ucnwbuubdkku
https://linktr.ee/TEROUZ
A cross between Bowie’s “China Girl” and Springsteen’s “Secret Garden” with a callback to the ‘voyeur’ vibes of The Police’s ‘‘Every Breath You Take,” it depicts a headstrong, feisty lead who leaves her mark on all those who cross her path.
The story is as much about growth through a deeper connection with someone, as it is about the hardness of growing apart and finally letting go. It’s an introspective look at what it is to really know somebody, from the smell of their skin to the way their brain works.
Florie Namir and Franck Biyong met by chance, on a platform founded by Tina Turner.
What they made after is the furthest thing from chance. Like a moment that is meant
to happen, they put their minds together to create something magical in just 11 days.
This is their single, Silence is Music. Brace yourself for a moment that might be as
brilliant as it is intoxicating.
Franck Biyong has remodeled what we know about Afroelectric guitar. With a style that
is so uniquely cultural and melodic, this song shows Florie Namir’s vocal presence with
Franck Biyong’s work. The dreamy tune dances within a well arranged soundscape, and
everything is balanced to let the vocals shine. The chords dance as an accompaniment,
letting the spotlight fall on the incredible illusion of the instruments. Double bass
player Lila Horovitz and cellist Tess Crowther add a playful rhythm around it that is
unique, yet proceeds to aid the floating theme of this song. As the percussion dances
in tandem with the instruments, you feel yourself sink into the depth of the song.
Franck Biyong does his part with his vocal performance as well, and the salsa between
their vocals is nothing less than sorcery. The gentle transitions show true moments
of genius and grace. By the time you’re part of the second verse, you’re transported
to another region. You can hear more of Franck Biyong’s beautiful tone and arrangement
styles by following him on Spotify, Power Brain and Anywhere Trouble are some must
listen tracks.
Listen to their single here:
https://open.spotify.com/album/00WPTjitBqhaJwa3Y4U923
Review by Nishant Varma
“Florie Namir and Franck Biyong have come together to create “Silence Is Music”,
a soothing song reflecting on conflict and its potentially devastating consequences
on us all. The melodiesand sounds bring forth a melancholic call for spiritual relief.
As stated by both musicians: “Whereas we may be hurting and fighting, there is still
room for dialogue and self-acceptance;the emptiness some may feel is bound to be
replaced withgratitude when one dares to look at life from a different angle”.
Florie, Israeli native London-‐based jazz-‐pop songstress and Franck, Cameroonian
Afrolectric guitar wizard met through the Beyond Music platform founded by Tina Turner,
which aim seeks to connect musicians from all genres and walks of life worldwide. “Silence
Is Music” was conceived in a mere 11 days, inspiring these creative performers on a
different route, while incorporating their individual styles and personal influences.
Talented female musicians added further powerful and heartfelt instrumentation:
Argentinean double bass player Lila Horovitz and Canadian cellist Tess Crowther.
Franck, who wrote the majority of the lyrics (with Florie contributing the final
verse) composed and curated this cohesive endeavor…It has a stellar and eerie feel
driven by acoustic instrumentation, open chord guitars, subtle African percussion
weighed by some delicate piano and spacey electronic sounds. Florie’s silky smooth
vocal delivery as well as Franck’s spoken word tone add serenity and solace to an
anxious world contemplation made of doubt and fear, but ultimately leading the way
to a glimpse of hope and faith in the style of a modern day gospel song…”
MUSICIANS
Vocals, Piano -‐ Florie Namir
Double Bass -‐ Lila Horovitz
Cello -‐ Tess Crowther
Drum Programming, Sound Effects, Talking Drum,
Congas, Keyboards, Guitars, Vocals -‐ FB
Recording engineers: Auguste Manly * Maxwell Ochieng * FB
Recorded @ Studio Quadrature & Dynamix Studios
Mixed by Grant Phabao & FB @ T.i.m.e.c. Studios
Mastered by Benjamin Lafont & FB @ Shelmi Studios
Line Production by Ruth Kioko
Artwork by Hilun Visuals
‘Basogol ba bok bisu
Ba mbem bes ni dingoma’
NEW YORK (February 8, 2023) — Woody Guthrie famously called people hoping machines, and as everyone settles into 2023, Gedalya, known by his fans as the Folk-Rock Rabbi, recalls and recounts that same sentiment in his latest album, This is My World.
“One of Guthrie’s most beloved songs was This Land is Your Land, and I wanted to expand on that idea for the new digital age,” Gedalya said. “His was a message of the power of empathy and hope, and I believe that continuing on that message is more important than ever.”
With the release of This is My World, Gedalya continues to spread messages of unity through his unique blend of folk, rock, and spiritual music.
“Through uplifting lyrics and memorable melodies, I invite listeners to join me in creating a better world for all,” Gedalya said. “Small actions can make a huge difference in the world, and I hope listeners feel empowered to create a better world as they listen to the new album.”
This is My World features eleven tracks that showcase Gedalya's exceptional songwriting skills and ability to connect with his audience. With a mix of upbeat rock songs, introspective ballads, and spiritual anthems, the album is a testament to Gedalya's versatility as an artist.
But throughout, he keeps a focus on a powerful message.
"I believe that music has the power to bring people together and help us heal,” Gedalya said. “With This is My World, I wanted to create a body of work that would inspire and encourage people to put their focus on making a positive difference in their communities."
“Thanks to amazing advancements in technology, we have access to more information and more people than in the history of humanity. The internet has connected us all, creating a time where we have the ability to work together for a better tomorrow. But we have to choose it. I want This is My World to be that invitation to step up and champion the world you want to live in.”
The album also reflects a new approach from the artist.
“Currently, it can be difficult to determine which genre one's music belongs to,” Gedalya said. “In the current musical climate, there are so many new categories, feels, and sounds that everyone is blending and experimenting with to create something creative, new and exciting.”
In an effort to take advantage of that musical climate, he said, with This is My World, he focused on finding his place musically and continued carrying his upbeat messaging.
One day, he sat down and asked himself, "Gedalya, where do you fit in?"
And after he pondered the question, he said an inner voice cried out, "You're a folk singer!" and that inspiration led to the development of the new album.
“When you look around with an open mind and a desire to grow spiritually, you will find so many things to learn,” Gedalya said. “But as reflected in the first track, Look at the World, people have to choose to be there and take advantage of the one and only opportunity we get to experience this life.”
With This World is an Illusion, Gedalya drives the listener to explore the duality of existence and finding the right path. Song for Peace pushes a message of giving to others, and Eyes on Wine, inspired by a verse from The Book of Proverbs, preaches focus.
Those tracks – along with the rest of the album – share the importance of learning to live in a way that benefits the world.
“While you listen to the songs, I hope that you will listen with an open heart and an open mind and that you will find that place within yourself that shares what you're hearing,” Gedalya said.
Songs from This is My World are currently available for purchase for digital play on Gedalya's website as well as on Bandcamp.
Physical copies of the album, along with digital copies of the eleven tracks, can also be found on his website, TheFolkRockRabbi.com. CDs can also be ordered by emailing Gedalya directly at GedalyaMusic@Gmail.com.
I´m very happy to announce my new single, which is... 12 minutes long.
It will be followed by a video in 3 languages (French, English and German).
It is about the element water in its reason of Being, illustrating the swaying of the currents and various levels of transparency, the Chinese ideogram shuǐ (for "water"), sleeping humans because it is the daily moment of return to the Principle, the swaying of the hammock, childrens´ swings...
To help with some orientation for the listener's meditation, I used Taoist texts that speak of water, rephrasing (sometimes) the translations according to the images available.
Is there more mind-blowing symbolism than that of Taoist texts? Symbols in sounds, images and words for age-old and timeless wisdoms, turned inwards, therefore independent of any place.
I've always been fascinated by Taoist writings for their "staggering" side, this way of sending you on a parable under the guise of irrationality, until contemplation brings out the meaning, for the greatest pleasure of the Spirit. It is indeed much easier to define something by using negative expressions that say what it is not. Composing this piece of music has been a rare pleasure.
Official release date on Spotify: 03 03 2023. I am considering a shorter version to post here, very soon, I promise!
Everything available soon on Bandcamp and YouTube
Love and Peace to all
Gilles
The pop rock album is loaded with fun, hooky songs, as well as lovely ballads, all featuring their trademark witty and intelligent lyrics, making Puppets of Castro stand out amongst the rest. The song "Thank You At The Grammys" from 'Nude Descending an Elevator' is a tight, hilarious rocker, sounding like an amped up Joe Walsh meets The Violent Femmes.
Lorand says "the song was written during a diet Mtn. Dew binge while driving, wildly scribbling notes on a clipboard, while steering with my knees, to the horror of nearby drivers."
The band features the songs of singer/songwriter Andrew Lorand, with guest vocals by Darryl Purpose.
Watch the video for "Thank You At the Grammys" here:
https://youtu.be/ELB9hHsew_0
Find Puppets of Castro:
Bandcamp: https://puppetsofcastro.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PuppetsOfCastro
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@puppetsofcastro
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5tzWBACMHZFWZVXEssAQfx
Music is spiritual Many new & upcoming releases. From Oriental Jazz Fusion To Hip
Hop with a lot of Afrobeat & Contempary High Life. World Excusive Première from
Florie Namir & Franck Biyong Music
Make sure you check the Hip Hop phenemonal Blk Odyssy, thanks to Anne-Sophie
Mattéi the must have ‘Whips-X-Chains feat. FP from Youthstar & Miscellaneous
out March 24 on Chinese Man Records Magical soulfull tune from Mr Bird ´Back
in Détroit’ To be released on Tangential Music along Jules Brennan - Hana
Voodoo that we support. Super Funky Tropical single ‘I Need à Stick’ from
Laurence Gastine, Jazz Soul Etnik To be released soon on Bandcamp A great
12 inch from Emma Lamadji Afroplugged out on Samuel Records Big thanks to
Kanaga Records Store for the tip Worlwide first AirPlay of Florie Namir &
Franck Biyong Music upcoming beautifull single 'Silence is Music’ out
Febuary 10 Upcoming new explosive ANALOG AFRICA ´The Good Samaritans’
chapter one out March 3 Kaleta & Super Yamba Band feat Osei Korankye 7
inch out on Ubiquity Records JEMBAA GROOVE out on Agogo Records Esperanto-
Cosa Suave reissued on Favorite Recordings Mehdi Nassouli incredible
project with the great #mamouchaorchestra highly spiritual jazz oriental
fusion ou vinyl @daymearocena Party Monster SON Palenque feat
Michi Sarmiento
Imagine yourself as a ghost floating away from this earthly life. Free from everything yet forever tethered to your memories. That’s the premise of “Perfect Future” from new full-length album, Magic Shadows.
Majoros has played hundreds of shows spanning North America and the UK. From legendary clubs such as the The Cavern Club in Liverpool (of Beatles fame), CBGB’s in NYC, 1st Ave in Minneapolis (Prince, Purple Rain), to stadium shows and festivals supporting many well-known artists.
Live supporting dates include work with Alanis Morissette, The Tragically Hip, Echo and the Bunnymen, Daniel and Bob Lanois (U2, Bob Dylan) Pete Best (original drummer for The Beatles), Jewel, Blue Rodeo, The Goo Goo Dolls, Fountains of Wayne, 5440, Taylor Hawkins, Big Sugar, Robyn Hitchcock, Blood Sweat and Tears, The Sadies, Ron Sexsmith, The Grapes of Wrath, Big Wreck, Universal Honey, The Grapes of Wrath, Del Amitri, and more.
Recording work with various artists and members of Blue Rodeo, The Cowboy Junkies, Giles Martin (the Beatles), The Spoons, Carl Jennings (Freedom Train), Dave Rave (Teenage Head) Universal Honey, Flux AD, The Nines, and more.
Sparked by the magical realism of The Twilight Zone (1959), “Perfect Future” is reminiscent of a lost summer deep in the memory. The nostalgic and dreamy pop track conjures up hazy imagery of summer twilight.
Magic Shadows is a time machine, connecting the dots between reality and the dream world, transitioning between the organic and synthetic sounds of the ‘70s and ‘80s.
Listen in here: https://open.spotify.com/album/764WHnDmqFWxaOtzhcO2yj?go=1&sp_cid=09a772ebdc89ba3e23afcefb6f60d87c&utm_source=embed_player_p&utm_medium=desktop&nd=1
Kicking off this week with some reggae from Guinea-Bissau from KimiDjabate, more from
Pa Bobo & Razoof. We take a thumb piano detour to US jazz musician Kahil El Zabar & the
Ethnic Heritage Ensemble before hitting some afrobeat with a new release from Togo All
Stars and Brighton's own Yamaya featuring stunning Senegalese singer Khadim Sarr, Brasil
based I.F.A., and Nigerian singer Okwei Odili & Aweto Band. More from the new single from
South African duo Msaki & Tubatsi and new realease from guitarist Franck Biyong. Not
forgetting Tanzanian multi instrumentalist and bush technologist Saidi Kanda & Mvula
Mandondo who play Brighton's Rosehill venue on Saturday Feb 18
Hosted by John Warr
Long time African and Latin record collectors and music enthusiasts, John Warr
and Guy Morley formed AfroBase as a monthly club back in 2002.
Tracklist
1/ Afonhe - Kimi Djabate
2/ Salya Dub - Pa Bobo Jobarteh & Razoof
3/ Don Cherry - Kahil El’Zabar & Ethnic Heritage Ensemble
4/ Up to the Sky - Togo All Stars
5/ Senegal - Yamaya
6/ Menelik - I.F.Á.
7/ If you love me - Okwei Odili & Aweto Band
8/ Napenda Nkewangu (I love my wife) - Saidi Kanda & Mvula Mandondo
9/ Zibonakalise - Msaki x Tubatsi
10/ Ome Ogo - Azuka Moweta & his Anioma Brothers
11/ Njombi - Franck Biyong
As bright and exciting as a summer day at the beach, the new world-pop single “Main Aaungi” was produced by Hollywood filmmaker-photographer Nick Saglimbeni of Slickforce Studio in collaboration with dynamic singer-songwriter S. J. Jananiy and her 3 Dot Recording Studios, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. The song was released digitally around the world as part of a commercial promotion for the Slickforce Light Frame, a lighting accessory for aspiring photographers.
“Main Aaungi” is a melodic new world-pop single about heroes coming to one’s rescue. Seeking the right voice for his film project, producer Nick Saglimbeni of Slickforce Studio, partnered with music producer S. J. Jananiy to compose, produce, and perform the thematic single, which has released worldwide on all platforms. Jananiy, a renowned polygenre singer-songwriter and composer, performs the song in Hindi, and will also record it in English, Tamil & Malayalam versions for the international market. The innovative video, featuring Shaun Romy, Mira Patel and Asmita Kumari, earned over 50,000 views in 3 days.
The uplifting lyrics, sung in Hindi by S. J. Jananiy, are inspired by the idea of everyday heroes coming to the rescue of those in need. Heartfelt and universally empowering, the English language translation is along the lines of "I'll rise up" or "I will come (to help you)." The song is also slated for global release in English, Tamil & Malayalam language versions, too, and the sound lends itself perfectly as the theme for an Indian reincarnation of an American action drama television series about lifeguards who patrol the warm sunny beaches and revolves around their interpersonal relationships, with plots usually centering on dangers related to the beach lifestyle. When they come to your rescue, to save you from a bad situation, they run across the beach in slow motion, usually wearing distinctive lifeguard gear, and the music keeps you breathlessly on the edge of your seat.
Listen to the original version on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/3BZrYehqyC5QJeQUabLre7?si=4f4ae92b4c10431d
Saglimbeni, who is renowned for his visually creative work with companies such as Disney, Apple, Skims, and many more, shares, “I first reached out to Jananiy in early 2020, looking to create a specific sound for our project that essentially didn't exist in the music space,” says Saglimbeni. “We wanted an uplifting American-style title track—inspired by the theme songs of the ‘80s and ‘90s—but with a completely Indian personality. I was searching for an artist who could pull this off when I came across Jananiy's song ‘Believe in You’ and right away I knew we’d found our artist. Jananiy has the voice of an angel—soft yet hauntingly powerful.”
Jananiy, a lover of collaborations, fully embraced the challenge and opportunity. “When Nick approached me with his concept, it was such a wonderful experiment for me! I wrote the melody backed with a lot of dynamic musical arrangements including zestful electric guitar runs and some surreal synth tones that deliver a power-packed kick, while the heart-pounding drums give a necessary flamboyance. Nick wrote the English lyrics firstly for my melody/tune which was the major underlying lyrical theme, & translated to the Hindi version by Janak Kaviratna. As far as my vocals, I layered beautiful conversations between the melody & lyrical plays, along with vocal effects that add a spark to this exciting track!”
Jananiy’s vocals on “Main Aaungi” seemingly fulfills a prophecy put forth in 2018 by Indie Pulse Music, who wrote, “She has an astonishing voice and deceptive range – a brief perusal of her professional résumé might suggest, to the uninformed, that she is a singer whose sound is strongly connected to the Indian world, but that’s not the case. Jananiy has a voice ready for the global pop stage, capable of intense emotional shifts, and flawlessly tuned into the song’s musical demands. Many listeners will marvel at the control she exerts over her vocal instrument…”
S. J. Jananiy is a Multi-Global-Award-Winning Composer, Singer, and Scholar who has received a prestigious Indian National Award & State Awards. She is a Film Score Composer, a Polygenre Indie Artist, Carnatic & Hindustani Classical Vocalist, Western Classical Singer, Music Director & more.
S. J. Jananiy (Subramanian Jaya Jananiy) is a singer-songwriter, musician and composer of Indian Classical, modern Indian Trap, Western Classical, and Pop/Spiritual music. A child prodigy with 25-plus years of music experience, “S. J. Jananiy” founded 3 Dot Recording Studios and JSJ Audio in Chennai, India, where she produces and performs on select projects as a lead vocalist, playback singer, songwriter, music producer, record producer, instrumentalist (keyboard, piano, harmonium, percussionist). She often serves as a Music Director, composer and performer at live events and festivals, and is rated as an "A Grade" artist of All India Radio.
A lifelong student of Brahmakumaris World Spiritual University, S. J. Jananiy has completed her Graduate degree in Economics (SMC, Chennai), an MA in Indian Music & M.Phil Music (QMC, Chennai), and, she is currently pursuing her Ph.D. - Research in Music. In Western Classical Music, she is an ATCL Vocal (Diploma), Grade 8 in Western Classical Vocal, Keyboard & Western Classical Theory (Trinity College London), and holds a Senior Diploma in Hindustani Classical Music (Prayag Sangeet Samiti, India)
S. J. shares some of her thoughts about how this project came about, “When Nick approached me with his concept and ideas, it was such a wonderful experiment for me to write the melody that is backed with a lot of dynamic and pragmatic stylistically musical arrangements which involves the zestful Electric Guitar runs, some surreal synth tones that attributes to the power-packed throw to this track, the heart-pounding drums create the flamboyant articulation. Nick wrote the English lyrics firstly for my melody/tune which was the major underlying lyrical theme, and the Hindi version was translated by Janak Kaviratna. As far as my vocals are concerned, I’ve implied some beautiful conversations between the melody and lyrics which plays along with the vocal FXs that adds up the spark to this title track!”
To connect with S. J. Jananiy’s Profile, Music & Social Media, visit: https://www.flowcode.com/page/jananiysj
She concludes, “Enjoy listening to this robust track!”
Nick Saglimbeni was born in Baltimore, Maryland, Nick Saglimbeni moved to Los Angeles to pursue cinematography at the top-ranked USC School of Cinema. Shortly after graduation, Nick opened SlickforceStudio in LA.
Clients quickly responded to the cinematic nature of Nick’s photography, and Slickforce soon became one of the hottest studios on the West Coast.
In August 2011, Nick Saglimbeni created and launched WMB 3D: World’s Most Beautiful, the first commercial magazine entirely photographed and designed in 3D. His advancements in 3D photography won him the Grand Prize in 3D at the Sony World Photography Awards in 2012.
Nick currently works on commercial campaigns for companies such as Disney, Apple, Skims, Walmart, Sports Illustrated. His art has been featured on The View, Larry King Live, E! News, and countless others.
He is heavily involved in creating art and raising awareness for several charities, including the Humane Society, The Epilepsy Foundation, Breast Cancer Charities of America, and A21.
In 2019, Nick created Painted Princess Project, a series of cultural-themed portraits featuring models from around the world, with a portion of each art sale donated to fight human trafficking. Keep up with Nick on Instagram at http://instagram.com/nicksaglimbeni
“Main Aaungi” was distributed via Tunecore to all digital and streaming platforms worldwide on Tuesday, January 18, 2023. The track can be heard as the exciting theme song for the new Slickforce Studio commercial with a worldwide premiere on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/SlickforceTV, where it is racking up the views, now at over 50,000 views in just 3 days!
“Main Aaungi” Credits:
Composer, Music Producer, Record Producer, Arranger & Singer - S. J. Jananiy
Lyrics for the Hindi version - Janak Kaviratna
Electric & Acoustic Guitars - Kabuli Rath
Bass Guitar - Keith Peters
Drums - Chris Barber, Musiversal
Drums/percussion - Nate Barnes
Music Assistant - R. Sankerganesh
Recorded by S. J. Jananiy @ 3 Dot Recording Studios, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.
Mixed & Mastered by Benny Steele, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Music Links:
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3wFa9bl
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/main-aaungi-single/1667519446
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/3BZrYehqyC5QJeQUabLre7?si=4f4ae92b4c10431d
“Main Aaungi” is a melodic new world-pop single about heroes coming to one’s rescue. Seeking the right voice for his film project, producer Nick Saglimbeni of Slickforce Studio, partnered with music producer S. J. Jananiy to compose, produce, and perform the thematic single, which has released worldwide on all platforms. Jananiy, a renowned polygenre singer-songwriter and composer, performs the song in Hindi, and will also record it in English, Tamil & Malayalam versions for the international market. The innovative video, featuring Shaun Romy, Mira Patel and Asmita Kumari, earned over 50,000 views in 3 days.
The uplifting lyrics, sung in Hindi by S. J. Jananiy, are inspired by the idea of everyday heroes coming to the rescue of those in need. Heartfelt and universally empowering, the English language translation is along the lines of "I'll rise up" or "I will come (to help you)." The song is also slated for global release in English, Tamil & Malayalam language versions, too, and the sound lends itself perfectly as the theme for an Indian reincarnation of an American action drama television series about lifeguards who patrol the warm sunny beaches and revolves around their interpersonal relationships, with plots usually centering on dangers related to the beach lifestyle. When they come to your rescue, to save you from a bad situation, they run across the beach in slow motion, usually wearing distinctive lifeguard gear, and the music keeps you breathlessly on the edge of your seat.
Listen to the original version on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/3BZrYehqyC5QJeQUabLre7?si=4f4ae92b4c10431d
Saglimbeni, who is renowned for his visually creative work with companies such as Disney, Apple, Skims, and many more, shares, “I first reached out to Jananiy in early 2020, looking to create a specific sound for our project that essentially didn't exist in the music space,” says Saglimbeni. “We wanted an uplifting American-style title track—inspired by the theme songs of the ‘80s and ‘90s—but with a completely Indian personality. I was searching for an artist who could pull this off when I came across Jananiy's song ‘Believe in You’ and right away I knew we’d found our artist. Jananiy has the voice of an angel—soft yet hauntingly powerful.”
Jananiy, a lover of collaborations, fully embraced the challenge and opportunity. “When Nick approached me with his concept, it was such a wonderful experiment for me! I wrote the melody backed with a lot of dynamic musical arrangements including zestful electric guitar runs and some surreal synth tones that deliver a power-packed kick, while the heart-pounding drums give a necessary flamboyance. Nick wrote the English lyrics firstly for my melody/tune which was the major underlying lyrical theme, & translated to the Hindi version by Janak Kaviratna. As far as my vocals, I layered beautiful conversations between the melody & lyrical plays, along with vocal effects that add a spark to this exciting track!”
Jananiy’s vocals on “Main Aaungi” seemingly fulfills a prophecy put forth in 2018 by Indie Pulse Music, who wrote, “She has an astonishing voice and deceptive range – a brief perusal of her professional résumé might suggest, to the uninformed, that she is a singer whose sound is strongly connected to the Indian world, but that’s not the case. Jananiy has a voice ready for the global pop stage, capable of intense emotional shifts, and flawlessly tuned into the song’s musical demands. Many listeners will marvel at the control she exerts over her vocal instrument…”
S. J. Jananiy is a Multi-Global-Award-Winning Composer, Singer, and Scholar who has received a prestigious Indian National Award & State Awards. She is a Film Score Composer, a Polygenre Indie Artist, Carnatic & Hindustani Classical Vocalist, Western Classical Singer, Music Director & more.
S. J. Jananiy (Subramanian Jaya Jananiy) is a singer-songwriter, musician and composer of Indian Classical, modern Indian Trap, Western Classical, and Pop/Spiritual music. A child prodigy with 25-plus years of music experience, “S. J. Jananiy” founded 3 Dot Recording Studios and JSJ Audio in Chennai, India, where she produces and performs on select projects as a lead vocalist, playback singer, songwriter, music producer, record producer, instrumentalist (keyboard, piano, harmonium, percussionist). She often serves as a Music Director, composer and performer at live events and festivals, and is rated as an "A Grade" artist of All India Radio.
A lifelong student of Brahmakumaris World Spiritual University, S. J. Jananiy has completed her Graduate degree in Economics (SMC, Chennai), an MA in Indian Music & M.Phil Music (QMC, Chennai), and, she is currently pursuing her Ph.D. - Research in Music. In Western Classical Music, she is an ATCL Vocal (Diploma), Grade 8 in Western Classical Vocal, Keyboard & Western Classical Theory (Trinity College London), and holds a Senior Diploma in Hindustani Classical Music (Prayag Sangeet Samiti, India)
S. J. shares some of her thoughts about how this project came about, “When Nick approached me with his concept and ideas, it was such a wonderful experiment for me to write the melody that is backed with a lot of dynamic and pragmatic stylistically musical arrangements which involves the zestful Electric Guitar runs, some surreal synth tones that attributes to the power-packed throw to this track, the heart-pounding drums create the flamboyant articulation. Nick wrote the English lyrics firstly for my melody/tune which was the major underlying lyrical theme, and the Hindi version was translated by Janak Kaviratna. As far as my vocals are concerned, I’ve implied some beautiful conversations between the melody and lyrics which plays along with the vocal FXs that adds up the spark to this title track!”
To connect with S. J. Jananiy’s Profile, Music & Social Media, visit: https://www.flowcode.com/page/jananiysj
She concludes, “Enjoy listening to this robust track!”
Nick Saglimbeni was born in Baltimore, Maryland, Nick Saglimbeni moved to Los Angeles to pursue cinematography at the top-ranked USC School of Cinema. Shortly after graduation, Nick opened SlickforceStudio in LA.
Clients quickly responded to the cinematic nature of Nick’s photography, and Slickforce soon became one of the hottest studios on the West Coast.
In August 2011, Nick Saglimbeni created and launched WMB 3D: World’s Most Beautiful, the first commercial magazine entirely photographed and designed in 3D. His advancements in 3D photography won him the Grand Prize in 3D at the Sony World Photography Awards in 2012.
Nick currently works on commercial campaigns for companies such as Disney, Apple, Skims, Walmart, Sports Illustrated. His art has been featured on The View, Larry King Live, E! News, and countless others.
He is heavily involved in creating art and raising awareness for several charities, including the Humane Society, The Epilepsy Foundation, Breast Cancer Charities of America, and A21.
In 2019, Nick created Painted Princess Project, a series of cultural-themed portraits featuring models from around the world, with a portion of each art sale donated to fight human trafficking. Keep up with Nick on Instagram at http://instagram.com/nicksaglimbeni
“Main Aaungi” was distributed via Tunecore to all digital and streaming platforms worldwide on Tuesday, January 18, 2023. The track can be heard as the exciting theme song for the new Slickforce Studio commercial with a worldwide premiere on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/SlickforceTV, where it is racking up the views, now at over 50,000 views in just 3 days!
“Main Aaungi” Credits:
Composer, Music Producer, Record Producer, Arranger & Singer - S. J. Jananiy
Lyrics for the Hindi version - Janak Kaviratna
Electric & Acoustic Guitars - Kabuli Rath
Bass Guitar - Keith Peters
Drums - Chris Barber, Musiversal
Drums/percussion - Nate Barnes
Music Assistant - R. Sankerganesh
Recorded by S. J. Jananiy @ 3 Dot Recording Studios, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.
Mixed & Mastered by Benny Steele, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Music Links:
Amazon Music: https://amzn.to/3wFa9bl
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/main-aaungi-single/1667519446
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/3BZrYehqyC5QJeQUabLre7?si=4f4ae92b4c10431d
This catchy pop rock alt rock song is a story about one woman's morals and how they change over time according to her life experiences.
With wistful guitar and lyrics, “Honey from the Hive” develops out into a more embellished rock song, electric guitar twangs and percussion and the occasional minor note highlights the emotions she is feeling.
“Little by little she has allowed herself to loosen the protective moorings that had been keeping her actions and her value system intact and anchored to one another, until she is horrified to find herself well into “enemy territory”, Shares Janice …
“She was not a captive victim, but a willing passenger on a vessel she helped to navigate! When she finally awakens and recognizes just how costly the ticket for her “pleasure cruise” is proving to be, she jumps ship, taking responsibility for her part in the fiasco, and admonishes her partner in crime to do the same.”
The Dorons have just released their brand new album 'The Doronic Verses.' This 4 piece band hail from Providence, Rhode Island and carry a funky style of alternative rock.
The Dorons are a family too! Dad Norman on lead guitar, mom on the drums and brothers Aryeh and Yosef on bass and lead vocals and guitar. It all began when, one day, Aryeh Rosenfield was a music major in college and he decided to perform with the rest of his family for a senior recital.
Parents Norman Rosenfield and Janice Kaidan were retired musicians who had played in many different bands throughout the 1980´s and 1990´s, and had been part of the Boston music scene. Rehearsing for months in advance of the recital, the family group really took off and the band The Dorons were formed!
Their album 'The Doronic Verses' is full of contemporary folk songs, alternative rock. With sensitive and thoughtful lyrics, melodic guitar verses and a strong acoustic folk sound as its foundation, The Dorons have crafted an album of 11 songs in true musical style.
Stay current with The Dorons
Website: http://www.thedorons.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedorons_band/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nailsouprecords
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nailsouprecords
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMwcTzZOX65yAFlcqZ-n8vw
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZbzHTWxrG2tutOOCb0Tu3?si=hbPBqufTTquCRsaoT38DcA
The powerful Shiva Mantra was chosen to be the first collaboration between India Trap and S. J. Jananiy. The lyric “Om Namah Shivaya” is the Shiva Panchakshari mantra for destroying ignorance, violence, unhealthy habits, and negative karma. Repeated in song, it releases our inner potential and invigorates us with positivity. Indian Trap (aka Jay) co-wrote this astonishing power packed track with award-winning South Indian artist S. J. Jananiy (aka S. J.). The renowned L.A. producer collaborated with the award-winning composer and singer S. J. to create a new sound that combines ancient Sanskrit mantras with classical Indian vocal techniques and contemporary Trap Music, pushing the envelope as S. J. delivers a sublime vocal performance over a hypnotic beat and melodic synths, Indian temple bells, flutes and 808 basses.
Indian Trap is an amalgamation of diverse musical influences and draws inspiration from Traditional Indian, Latin, Afrobeat, World Rhythms, and Bollywood Punjabi sounds. He infuses different genres and styles, like Reggaeton, Denbow with Punjabi Bhangra sounds that he calls ‘Punjabi Denbow’, and Latin with Indian Trap and hip hop elements that he’s calling Latin Indian Trap.
Mantras are Sanskrit prayers that millions of people have used daily for over three thousand years, and the popularity of mantras continues to expand worldwide. The Shaivite Hindu tradition, which follows Lord Shiva (the subject of this new track) holds that everything we do involves energy, and that energy is nothing other than vibration. Our words, actions, and emotions contribute to a larger energetic field known as prana, or life force. We emit a wave of energy into the world whenever we think or do something. When we repeat a mantra, we direct our energy inward, allowing us to connect with our deeper selves and gain greater control over our minds. It has helped millions of people improve their lives and effect positive change.
The Shiva-related tradition is a major part of Hinduism, the figure of Shiva today is a combination of various older deities into a single figure. Shiva is often pictured with a serpent around his neck, beneath the adorning crescent moon, the holy river Ganga flows from his matted hair, and the third eye on his forehead is the eye that turns everything in front of it into ashes when opened. The trishula or trident is his physical weapon, and he often holds the damaru drum, which is used in meditation practices.
“As a musician, my material is sound,” says Indian Trap. “I’ve always considered myself a sound designer. When I learned that the Shaivite Hindu tradition believes that matter is vibration and the cosmos is sound, it got me thinking! We talk about someone having great vibes, don’t we? Don’t we say that some people vibe well together? These seemingly trivial words have a profound meaning! Mantras are prayers that ‘vibe’ with the universe. What better lyrics can a composer ask for? Jananiy brought the mantras, and I brought my music! Three thousand years old mantras that go right to the heart of matter and contemporary music that has emerged from the streets, from ordinary people… we’re talking about roots! Music is the medicine for the soul, Plato said. At its best, music is a cosmic energy that removes negativity and obstacles, bringing peace, focus, and satisfaction to all who listen. Ever heard of Bach? The journey may be long, but we are on the right track.”
Jay Singh, aka J2 or Jay, is the successful record producer and composer behind Indian Trap. Jay rose to prominence after winning the prestigious Ministry of Sound DJ Idol Competition in 2002. He has since produced and remixed songs for various artists, including LL Cool J, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, and Madonna. He burst on the pop music scene as J2 with the release of the smash hit “Dare La La La,” which he co-wrote and produced for Shakira’s 10th studio album; the track debuted in the Top 10 of most international charts. A reworked version titled “La La La” Brazil” was the official theme song for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and is featured on the One Love, One Rhythm World Cup album. The song was also used in a T-Mobile commercial and Shakira’s Activia commercial, which became the most shared advertisement of 2014 and has over 2 billion streams to date. J2’s compositions have appeared in over 100 films, trailers, video games, television shows, and advertisements. They gathered over 250 million streams across YouTube and other major DSPs.
Coming from a musical family, Jay was first introduced to music at the age of just seven. His father was one of the first pioneers of Bhangra music in the United Kingdom and both his grandfather and great-grandfather were celebrated Tabla players. Jay first burst into the scene when he won the prestigious Ministry of Sound DJ Idol Competition in 2002.
Weighing in from her studio in Chennai, India, S. J. adds, “Working along with Jay for this very special single was highly explorative by fusing the Vedic Mantras, his Indian Trap music, and the many vocalizations. It got me thinking about how these Mantras, encased in Trap music and Indian raga-based music, could be performed live, and that got me curious about those possibilities. This song has at least 32 different vocal layers, along with a unique collage of Taans, Aalaaps, Swaras, and improvisations that blend beautifully with harmonies for Jay’s track!”
A quote from Sanskrit says, “Yatra naryastu pujyante, ramante tatra devata” from Vedas, which means where women are respected and worshiped, God resides there.
Subramanian Jaya Jananiy, known all over the world as S. J. Jananiy, is a Multi Global Award-Winning versatile musician, composer (Indian Classical and Western Classical), Playback Singer, Performer, Songwriter, Music Director, Music Producer, Record Producer, Keyboardist, Independent Artist and Research Scholar. She is also a Musical Ambassador and Advisory Board Outreach Ambassador at Project-Peace on Earth.
As a youngster, keenly watching her uncle playing keyboard and guitar, she started to play the keyboard whenever she sang. She started acquiring knowledge in music through her uncle’s guidance and support. After her school time, she simply loved to sing along with karaoke and grew up listening to A.R.Rahman’s soundtracks, where she got familiar with chord progressions which she learned to play on the keyboard. She has given around 1000 stage shows and concerts. She has given around 100 Carnatic classical keyboard concerts.
S. J. and her uncle designed the concept-series Classic Waves - Kannan songs in Tamil in 2007, including traditional songs for which Jananiy conducted, arranged and produced music that is the Fusion album series. This concept fetched them good recognition and became a popular number. Next they presented Classic Waves 2 – Silambosai (2010), Classic Waves 3 - Hit songs on Lord Shiva (Label:JSJ Audio- 2011), Classic Marvel (1, 2, 3, 4 concept-series). With respect to Carnatic classical, Classic Hits in Keyboard, Pancharatna Krithis in Keyboard, Kannan songs in Keyboard, and Chants are some of her other albums.
She has composed music for the Tamil Movie Prabha and the audio was launched during August 2015. She continues to compose music and she sings for a number of private albums, short films and advertisements. S. J. now has her own rapidly growing music business, she has so far released around 69 Music Albums under her JSJ Audio label, including such specialties as Carnatic Classical Vocal, Carnatic Classical Keyboard, Devotional, Fusion, New age, Indian Pop, Electronic Pop and Contemporary music.
She is the disciple of Guruji Padma Vibhushan, Sangita Kalanidhi, Chevalier Late Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna. She formerly was trained under Guru Shri Neyveli Santhanagopalan, Guru Shri Injikudi Ganesan and Guru Smt. Dr. Rukmini Ramani and Guru Shri Chidambaram Shanmukham. She received her earliest training under Guru Smt. Geetha Srinivasan and Guru Smt. Lakshmi.
She received the prestigious global honor Peace Song Awards Winner 2018 in Public Voting and Social Media for the Song "Pudhiya Ulagam Malarattumae," the only song from India, (World Music Category), in Los Angeles, California. In 2019 Jananiy's International debut "Believe in You" - Electronic/Pop Single, won the Bronze Medal for Emerging Artist and Song honored by Global Music Awards, in La Jolla, California. Most recently, in 2022, Sneham Ezhuga," the Tamil version of "Maithreem Bhajatha," won two Bronze Medals for "World Music" and "Music Video" by Global Music Awards, La Jolla, California.
“Shiva Mantra” is the first single in a series leading up to a collaborative album to be released later in 2023. It is supported with a full length lyric video and a wide range of artistic and psychedelically appealing content in the form of shorts, reels and stories. Watch for more coming soon!
LINKS
Shiva Mantra Smartlink: https://ffm.to/bjb29r2
Indian Trap Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiantrap/
S. J. Jananiy Smartlink: https://www.flowcode.com/page/jananiysj
YouTube version: https://youtu.be/FBSCHpO7I0s
Indian Trap is an amalgamation of diverse musical influences and draws inspiration from Traditional Indian, Latin, Afrobeat, World Rhythms, and Bollywood Punjabi sounds. He infuses different genres and styles, like Reggaeton, Denbow with Punjabi Bhangra sounds that he calls ‘Punjabi Denbow’, and Latin with Indian Trap and hip hop elements that he’s calling Latin Indian Trap.
Mantras are Sanskrit prayers that millions of people have used daily for over three thousand years, and the popularity of mantras continues to expand worldwide. The Shaivite Hindu tradition, which follows Lord Shiva (the subject of this new track) holds that everything we do involves energy, and that energy is nothing other than vibration. Our words, actions, and emotions contribute to a larger energetic field known as prana, or life force. We emit a wave of energy into the world whenever we think or do something. When we repeat a mantra, we direct our energy inward, allowing us to connect with our deeper selves and gain greater control over our minds. It has helped millions of people improve their lives and effect positive change.
The Shiva-related tradition is a major part of Hinduism, the figure of Shiva today is a combination of various older deities into a single figure. Shiva is often pictured with a serpent around his neck, beneath the adorning crescent moon, the holy river Ganga flows from his matted hair, and the third eye on his forehead is the eye that turns everything in front of it into ashes when opened. The trishula or trident is his physical weapon, and he often holds the damaru drum, which is used in meditation practices.
“As a musician, my material is sound,” says Indian Trap. “I’ve always considered myself a sound designer. When I learned that the Shaivite Hindu tradition believes that matter is vibration and the cosmos is sound, it got me thinking! We talk about someone having great vibes, don’t we? Don’t we say that some people vibe well together? These seemingly trivial words have a profound meaning! Mantras are prayers that ‘vibe’ with the universe. What better lyrics can a composer ask for? Jananiy brought the mantras, and I brought my music! Three thousand years old mantras that go right to the heart of matter and contemporary music that has emerged from the streets, from ordinary people… we’re talking about roots! Music is the medicine for the soul, Plato said. At its best, music is a cosmic energy that removes negativity and obstacles, bringing peace, focus, and satisfaction to all who listen. Ever heard of Bach? The journey may be long, but we are on the right track.”
Jay Singh, aka J2 or Jay, is the successful record producer and composer behind Indian Trap. Jay rose to prominence after winning the prestigious Ministry of Sound DJ Idol Competition in 2002. He has since produced and remixed songs for various artists, including LL Cool J, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Lil Wayne, and Madonna. He burst on the pop music scene as J2 with the release of the smash hit “Dare La La La,” which he co-wrote and produced for Shakira’s 10th studio album; the track debuted in the Top 10 of most international charts. A reworked version titled “La La La” Brazil” was the official theme song for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and is featured on the One Love, One Rhythm World Cup album. The song was also used in a T-Mobile commercial and Shakira’s Activia commercial, which became the most shared advertisement of 2014 and has over 2 billion streams to date. J2’s compositions have appeared in over 100 films, trailers, video games, television shows, and advertisements. They gathered over 250 million streams across YouTube and other major DSPs.
Coming from a musical family, Jay was first introduced to music at the age of just seven. His father was one of the first pioneers of Bhangra music in the United Kingdom and both his grandfather and great-grandfather were celebrated Tabla players. Jay first burst into the scene when he won the prestigious Ministry of Sound DJ Idol Competition in 2002.
Weighing in from her studio in Chennai, India, S. J. adds, “Working along with Jay for this very special single was highly explorative by fusing the Vedic Mantras, his Indian Trap music, and the many vocalizations. It got me thinking about how these Mantras, encased in Trap music and Indian raga-based music, could be performed live, and that got me curious about those possibilities. This song has at least 32 different vocal layers, along with a unique collage of Taans, Aalaaps, Swaras, and improvisations that blend beautifully with harmonies for Jay’s track!”
A quote from Sanskrit says, “Yatra naryastu pujyante, ramante tatra devata” from Vedas, which means where women are respected and worshiped, God resides there.
Subramanian Jaya Jananiy, known all over the world as S. J. Jananiy, is a Multi Global Award-Winning versatile musician, composer (Indian Classical and Western Classical), Playback Singer, Performer, Songwriter, Music Director, Music Producer, Record Producer, Keyboardist, Independent Artist and Research Scholar. She is also a Musical Ambassador and Advisory Board Outreach Ambassador at Project-Peace on Earth.
As a youngster, keenly watching her uncle playing keyboard and guitar, she started to play the keyboard whenever she sang. She started acquiring knowledge in music through her uncle’s guidance and support. After her school time, she simply loved to sing along with karaoke and grew up listening to A.R.Rahman’s soundtracks, where she got familiar with chord progressions which she learned to play on the keyboard. She has given around 1000 stage shows and concerts. She has given around 100 Carnatic classical keyboard concerts.
S. J. and her uncle designed the concept-series Classic Waves - Kannan songs in Tamil in 2007, including traditional songs for which Jananiy conducted, arranged and produced music that is the Fusion album series. This concept fetched them good recognition and became a popular number. Next they presented Classic Waves 2 – Silambosai (2010), Classic Waves 3 - Hit songs on Lord Shiva (Label:JSJ Audio- 2011), Classic Marvel (1, 2, 3, 4 concept-series). With respect to Carnatic classical, Classic Hits in Keyboard, Pancharatna Krithis in Keyboard, Kannan songs in Keyboard, and Chants are some of her other albums.
She has composed music for the Tamil Movie Prabha and the audio was launched during August 2015. She continues to compose music and she sings for a number of private albums, short films and advertisements. S. J. now has her own rapidly growing music business, she has so far released around 69 Music Albums under her JSJ Audio label, including such specialties as Carnatic Classical Vocal, Carnatic Classical Keyboard, Devotional, Fusion, New age, Indian Pop, Electronic Pop and Contemporary music.
She is the disciple of Guruji Padma Vibhushan, Sangita Kalanidhi, Chevalier Late Dr. M. Balamuralikrishna. She formerly was trained under Guru Shri Neyveli Santhanagopalan, Guru Shri Injikudi Ganesan and Guru Smt. Dr. Rukmini Ramani and Guru Shri Chidambaram Shanmukham. She received her earliest training under Guru Smt. Geetha Srinivasan and Guru Smt. Lakshmi.
She received the prestigious global honor Peace Song Awards Winner 2018 in Public Voting and Social Media for the Song "Pudhiya Ulagam Malarattumae," the only song from India, (World Music Category), in Los Angeles, California. In 2019 Jananiy's International debut "Believe in You" - Electronic/Pop Single, won the Bronze Medal for Emerging Artist and Song honored by Global Music Awards, in La Jolla, California. Most recently, in 2022, Sneham Ezhuga," the Tamil version of "Maithreem Bhajatha," won two Bronze Medals for "World Music" and "Music Video" by Global Music Awards, La Jolla, California.
“Shiva Mantra” is the first single in a series leading up to a collaborative album to be released later in 2023. It is supported with a full length lyric video and a wide range of artistic and psychedelically appealing content in the form of shorts, reels and stories. Watch for more coming soon!
LINKS
Shiva Mantra Smartlink: https://ffm.to/bjb29r2
Indian Trap Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiantrap/
S. J. Jananiy Smartlink: https://www.flowcode.com/page/jananiysj
YouTube version: https://youtu.be/FBSCHpO7I0s
The story follows a young prince who visits lots of different planets including Planet Earth, and addresses themes such as friendship, love and loss.
Lam´s newest musical foray displays his unique style of folk-pop with uplifting tracks that take the listener on a sweet journey. With folk instrumentation and lyrics that tell the story of each character of the book; one song for each character, in fact.
Chet Lam is a veteran Hong Kong singer songwriter, having both produced best selling singles as well as being a well known television presenter in his home country. Lam now resides in Dublin, Ireland where he continues to write and produce his eclectic music:
“I wrote these songs from the perspective of each character. The Little Prince is a romantic, of course, The Fox is simply a drama queen, The Rose is spoiled, The Ghosts are actually everyday people, The Snake is innocent … all characters coming together will be a life lived to the fullest.”
Lam´s vocals remind the listener of such artists as Simon and Garfunkel, and James Taylor. He explores themes of longing, of belonging and life, love and loss in much of his work. Having been born and raised in Hong Kong, now based in Ireland, he has experienced firsthand the challenge of feeling where “home” is and where one truly belongs.
These themes are prominent in this new album, and with Lam´s Asian fusion pop it is sure to charm his existing audience as well as new fans.
Stay current with Chet Lam´s music on his website: http://www.chetlam.com
And social media channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chetlam/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chetlam/
Stream his music:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiznIklBjCQ_kJ2ER2odkkQ?app=desktop
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/chetlamhk
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0eE5MIp5hONB0TxIJS5H48?si=NoRX1u0ERrmzfq5KhFq1TQ
Entering The Axis Mundi, by modular synthesizer composer and visionary artist Bart Hawkins, is inspired by the mystical source or center where all things exist at the same time. The "axis mundi" (also cosmic axis, world axis, world tree, world pillar, columna cerului) is a point described as the center of the world, the connection between earth and heaven, the gateway to Shambhala. Hawkins’ third album for Spotted Peccary Music, Entering The Axis Mundi, picks up where its predecessor Vision of Eden left off, continuing a sonic retelling of a creation myth. This time, instead of the book of Genesis, Hawkins drew inspiration from the concept of axis mundi, meaning “cosmic axis”— the core of existence where time and space are nonlinear and all history convergent. The innovative album releases worldwide on January 20 in a variety of digital formats, and on all streaming platforms.
The tranquil opening track -- “A Joyous Return” -- builds like a cresting wave as elongated chimes ripple around an anchoring modular synth pattern. The thrilling “To Ride a Pterodactyl” features some of Hawkins’ most innovative sound design yet. Here, he feeds the modular synth through a Moog Theremin to conjure the searing screeches of a prehistoric beast.
Throughout the nine tracks of Entering The Axis Mundi, Hawkins further establishes himself as a master of atmospheres extruded from the complex palette of the modular synthesizer. From the wistful adventure of “River Boat to Atlantis” to the galloping tension of “Race to Cosmos Redshift 7 Galaxy,” he is at home in any world he weaves.
Hawkins found the perfect language of this concept in the modular synthesizer; its sounds are innately cyclical, yet in constant motion. He says, “The modular synth itself is an axis mundi, it pulls you in, where out of chaos comes clarity of focus, the center that all revolves around.”
Reflecting on his process, he adds “I do not use any keyboards in my music, everything you hear is created from the modular system. There is an organic intimacy that happens between you and the modular when a keyboard is not hooked up. It is very liberating. And I hope I can capture some of that and pass it to my listeners. It challenges me to think differently about the signal path and how music is created. The more I let go of thinking my way into music, the more the music emerges. This process is transformational and it is no different in life. Listening without your ears and seeing without your eyes will transform your life completely.”
Spotted Peccary will live stream the album throughout the day of release on SPMLive: https://linktr.ee/ambientelectronic.tv and, the first video from the album -- "An Owl Dreams Of Me (Excerpt)" -- is out now on YouTube (https://youtu.be/SZ_opfYXuhw)
Entering The Axis Mundi was produced, composed, performed and mixed by Bart Hawkins. The album was mastered by Howard Givens, with creative design by Daniel Pipitone. It is available in many digital formats including Audiophile, CD Quality Lossless, MP3 downloads, and can be found on most streaming platforms. Hawkins' first release on the Spotted Peccary Music label was 21 Pulse Eclipse (SPM-4301), followed by Vision Of Eden (SPM-4302), and now Entering The Axis Mundi (SPM-4303).
Electronic music composer and modular synthesist Bart Hawkins’ dedication to inner sonic exploration began in the early '80s when his practice of Zen Meditation and love of the Berlin School style of electronic music launched him into a world of musical landscapes, sonic textures, and silence, sparking a spiritual awakening into the power of sound. His time as a professional film & video producer and cinematographer soon led to experiments with tape loops, delays, re-recording techniques, and the mixing of ambient sounds to create visual listening experiences. Now, diving headlong into the world of modular synthesis, Bart’s sonic creations guide listeners through an electric universe of sound, vision, and consciousness.
Tracklist:
1 A Joyous Return
2 To Ride A Pterodactyl
3 Race To Cosmos Redshift 7 Galaxy
4 Parisa And Miriam
5 An Owl’s Dream Of Me
6 Entering The Axis Mundi
7 River Boat To Atlantis
8 The Secret Of 33.3
9 Blessed Under Your Feet
Buy/Stream:
Smartlink: https://orcd.co/entering-the-axis-mundi-ps
Website: https://spottedpeccary.com/shop/entering-the-axis-mundi/
Bandcamp: https://bart-hawkins.bandcamp.com/album/entering-the-axis-mundi
Music Video: https://youtu.be/XuUXAhV8Lds
Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spottedpeccary/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpottedPeccary
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spottedpeccary/
The tranquil opening track -- “A Joyous Return” -- builds like a cresting wave as elongated chimes ripple around an anchoring modular synth pattern. The thrilling “To Ride a Pterodactyl” features some of Hawkins’ most innovative sound design yet. Here, he feeds the modular synth through a Moog Theremin to conjure the searing screeches of a prehistoric beast.
Throughout the nine tracks of Entering The Axis Mundi, Hawkins further establishes himself as a master of atmospheres extruded from the complex palette of the modular synthesizer. From the wistful adventure of “River Boat to Atlantis” to the galloping tension of “Race to Cosmos Redshift 7 Galaxy,” he is at home in any world he weaves.
Hawkins found the perfect language of this concept in the modular synthesizer; its sounds are innately cyclical, yet in constant motion. He says, “The modular synth itself is an axis mundi, it pulls you in, where out of chaos comes clarity of focus, the center that all revolves around.”
Reflecting on his process, he adds “I do not use any keyboards in my music, everything you hear is created from the modular system. There is an organic intimacy that happens between you and the modular when a keyboard is not hooked up. It is very liberating. And I hope I can capture some of that and pass it to my listeners. It challenges me to think differently about the signal path and how music is created. The more I let go of thinking my way into music, the more the music emerges. This process is transformational and it is no different in life. Listening without your ears and seeing without your eyes will transform your life completely.”
Spotted Peccary will live stream the album throughout the day of release on SPMLive: https://linktr.ee/ambientelectronic.tv and, the first video from the album -- "An Owl Dreams Of Me (Excerpt)" -- is out now on YouTube (https://youtu.be/SZ_opfYXuhw)
Entering The Axis Mundi was produced, composed, performed and mixed by Bart Hawkins. The album was mastered by Howard Givens, with creative design by Daniel Pipitone. It is available in many digital formats including Audiophile, CD Quality Lossless, MP3 downloads, and can be found on most streaming platforms. Hawkins' first release on the Spotted Peccary Music label was 21 Pulse Eclipse (SPM-4301), followed by Vision Of Eden (SPM-4302), and now Entering The Axis Mundi (SPM-4303).
Electronic music composer and modular synthesist Bart Hawkins’ dedication to inner sonic exploration began in the early '80s when his practice of Zen Meditation and love of the Berlin School style of electronic music launched him into a world of musical landscapes, sonic textures, and silence, sparking a spiritual awakening into the power of sound. His time as a professional film & video producer and cinematographer soon led to experiments with tape loops, delays, re-recording techniques, and the mixing of ambient sounds to create visual listening experiences. Now, diving headlong into the world of modular synthesis, Bart’s sonic creations guide listeners through an electric universe of sound, vision, and consciousness.
Tracklist:
1 A Joyous Return
2 To Ride A Pterodactyl
3 Race To Cosmos Redshift 7 Galaxy
4 Parisa And Miriam
5 An Owl’s Dream Of Me
6 Entering The Axis Mundi
7 River Boat To Atlantis
8 The Secret Of 33.3
9 Blessed Under Your Feet
Buy/Stream:
Smartlink: https://orcd.co/entering-the-axis-mundi-ps
Website: https://spottedpeccary.com/shop/entering-the-axis-mundi/
Bandcamp: https://bart-hawkins.bandcamp.com/album/entering-the-axis-mundi
Music Video: https://youtu.be/XuUXAhV8Lds
Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spottedpeccary/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpottedPeccary
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spottedpeccary/
Upon awaking, he wrote it down and "Destiny Road" was born, but never released it. The song, from the band's debut album 'Destiny Road' was put to the side after the band experienced several personal difficulties and problems. But now, the band is back and ready to share this truly magnificent rock single.
"Destiny Road" is about destiny. After Gary wrote the song, he moved from California to Park City, Utah in 1998. In 2003, one of his ski racing students had a very bad crash and he was first on the scene to triage her injuries. Over a short time we developed feelings for each other. Shortly after that, Gary had his own accident in which he fractured his neck and had a concussion. He went into surgery to fuse his vertebrae together and when he woke up, his current wife was by his side.
They got married, but a funny thing happened. "It turns out that as a child up until she moved to Utah to attend college she, with her parents, traveled all over the world. She lived in Saudi Arabia from around 7 years old until she would attend Prep-school in the US," shares Gary. "So there was my world traveler and true to my dream she was and is the love of my life. The dream: every bit of it came to be."
The overall message rings throughout the song, that your own destiny is right around the corner. Everything happens for a reason.
Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/track/78sHlhBAyJzMNqUIIv2GTd?si=147816fba58b4c76
“Telling tales from the world around us helps us reflect on our own stories, and, we hope, helps listeners understand theirs as well,” The Flip Phones share.
They have just released their new video for their moving single “Fly Back to You.” The folk rock song mostly lies in minor as it explored devoted and unrequited love. The song was inspired by the story of the Australasian gannet named Nigel. The Australasian gannet is known as the world’s loneliest seabird, and Nigel has eyes only for one other, who happened to be made of stone.
“We made this video with Luke Justin Roberts from LJR Creative as part of his Amplify events, which provide the opportunity for local artists to shoot videos in music studios in the DC area,” shares the duo. “This video was filmed at Ivakota studio in DC and was shot in a single take with no post-production editing. Luke did a great job of working with us to capture the lonely and sad but sweet atmosphere of the song.”
The one-shot video complements the lyrics and musical tone of this sad, yet sweet story. It feels as though they are telling you this story personally. You get to see their process and how the music moves through them. You can feel the passion for the music and see their love for what they do. Something about the one shot format of the video makes the message of the song all the more clearer.
“Imagine a lonely bird in a lonely place, devoted to a concrete statue,” says Lindsey. “It’s sad in a way, which we tried to capture with the tone of the song, but it’s also really sweet and inspiring. Love knows no bounds.”
The Flip Phones are Ryan and Lindsey. Ryan (guitar, vocals) is a self-taught musician who grew up trying to emulate The Beatles, The Kinks, and Blur. He draws on these influences and more when devising unconventional chord progressions and arrangements, challenging The Flip Phones to innovate with sound and form. His musical background complements Lindsey’s years of classical piano lessons and stints in symphonic and marching bands. Lindsey (keyboard, flute, melodica, vocals) builds on the intriguing guitar parts, crafting melodies and hooks into fledgling earworms. She never forgot her strong roots in music theory, sometimes throwing in triplets and other musical flourishes.
Watch "Fly Back to You" now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpFGjcodfns
When it comes to selecting your wedding music, it’s important to consider the style and theme of your event, as well as the preferences of you and your partner. Do you both love classic rock? Are you more into the latest pop hits? Or perhaps you want to incorporate some cultural music to honor your heritage. Whatever your music taste, a wedding DJ in Kampala can work with you to create a customized playlist that reflects your unique style.
One way to ensure that you and your partner are both happy with the music choices is to make a list of your favorite songs and share it with your DJ. This will give them an idea of the types of tracks you like and allow them to incorporate these into their sets. You can also discuss any specific songs or genres that you would like to be played or avoided.
It’s also a good idea to think about the different stages of your wedding and what type of music will suit each one. For example, you might want something more upbeat and energetic for the reception, while softer, romantic tunes would be more suitable for the ceremony. Your DJ can help you choose the right music for each part of your wedding and ensure that the transitions between them are smooth.
In addition to your personal preferences, it’s important to consider the age and tastes of your guests. You want everyone to have a good time and feel included, so try to choose a mix of songs that will appeal to a wide range of people. A wedding DJ in Kampala will have experience in selecting music that is appropriate for all ages and can help you create a diverse playlist that will keep everyone entertained.
Another aspect to consider when choosing your wedding music is the venue. Some venues may have sound restrictions or guidelines, so it’s important to check with them before making any final decisions. Your DJ will be able to work with you to ensure that the music fits within the venue’s requirements and enhances the overall atmosphere of your wedding.
Overall, the key to selecting the perfect music for your wedding is to communicate with your DJ and share your preferences and vision for your big day. With the help of a skilled wedding DJ in Kampala, you can create a playlist that reflects your personal style and sets the mood for a memorable and enjoyable event.
New Miltos Marathon videoclip for the song "Just a little thing" coming soon enjoy a screenshot !
Thank you for supporting Miltos Marathon music.
Coming up this Thursday, 5th January for episode #451 of Curved Radio with Gayle
Austin and the Curvy crew on Eastside Radio 89.7FM, we kick the new year off with
one of our favourite Curvy crewsters who always brings the magic, Aku Kadogo.
Aku will join us live from Detroit sharing some fab tracks from #TheBeneficiaries
(Jeff Mills, jessica Care moore, Eddie Fowlkes) released via Axis Records , Lipombe
Jazz feat. Franck Biyong Music & Nublu Orchestra Conducted by Butch Morris released
via Nublu Records. http://www.akukadogo.com/
Curvy crewster, musician Marguerite Montes Music joins Gayle in the Sydney studio
sharing some wild French bohemian folk rock from La Rue Kétanou and mr.K beams in
again from Brisbane with sounds from Anna Jordan's the gorgeous SELK, new work from
the Grand Poobah of Curvyness himself, Ergo Phizmiz and some very yummy ambient
stylings from Australian guitarist/musician, Glenn Bennie of Underground
Lovers to share.
Gayle also has a smorgasbord of some new and not so new from A Moving Sound 聲動
from Taiwan, Nick Drake, Valentina Magaletti Drummer, Inga Liljestrom, The
Nethered, Nico Muhly feat. Nadia Sirota, The Smile, #GeorgeBenson and lots
more lined up!
Its all so curvy to the max!
Listen to the livestream via Eastside Radio 89.7FM : https://eastsidefm.org/ :
from 9.30pm - 11.30pm Sydney, AU time this Thursday or via catch-up through
the Eastside website. Check the world clock for times at your place!
Connect with us, check out our website, meet all our Curvy crewsters and follow
all our Curvy socials via : www.linktr.ee/CurvedRadio
~Gayle, Marguerite, mr.K & the Curvy crew.
#CommunityRadio #EastSideFM #Sydney #GayleAustin
#mrK #MargueriteMontes #AkuKadogo #CurvedRadio
Austin and the Curvy crew on Eastside Radio 89.7FM, we kick the new year off with
one of our favourite Curvy crewsters who always brings the magic, Aku Kadogo.
Aku will join us live from Detroit sharing some fab tracks from #TheBeneficiaries
(Jeff Mills, jessica Care moore, Eddie Fowlkes) released via Axis Records , Lipombe
Jazz feat. Franck Biyong Music & Nublu Orchestra Conducted by Butch Morris released
via Nublu Records. http://www.akukadogo.com/
Curvy crewster, musician Marguerite Montes Music joins Gayle in the Sydney studio
sharing some wild French bohemian folk rock from La Rue Kétanou and mr.K beams in
again from Brisbane with sounds from Anna Jordan's the gorgeous SELK, new work from
the Grand Poobah of Curvyness himself, Ergo Phizmiz and some very yummy ambient
stylings from Australian guitarist/musician, Glenn Bennie of Underground
Lovers to share.
Gayle also has a smorgasbord of some new and not so new from A Moving Sound 聲動
from Taiwan, Nick Drake, Valentina Magaletti Drummer, Inga Liljestrom, The
Nethered, Nico Muhly feat. Nadia Sirota, The Smile, #GeorgeBenson and lots
more lined up!
Its all so curvy to the max!
Listen to the livestream via Eastside Radio 89.7FM : https://eastsidefm.org/ :
from 9.30pm - 11.30pm Sydney, AU time this Thursday or via catch-up through
the Eastside website. Check the world clock for times at your place!
Connect with us, check out our website, meet all our Curvy crewsters and follow
all our Curvy socials via : www.linktr.ee/CurvedRadio
~Gayle, Marguerite, mr.K & the Curvy crew.
#CommunityRadio #EastSideFM #Sydney #GayleAustin
#mrK #MargueriteMontes #AkuKadogo #CurvedRadio
2009: Best Voice College Saint Albert of ATAKPAME
2013: Release of the 1st Album (Hotel EDA-OBA)
2016: Performance at the Beach Gospel Festival (LOME)
2017: Participation in the 8th game of the Francophonie category song (ABIDJAN).
2017: Presentation at the AGOA forum (Africa Growth and Opportunity Act)
2018: Honorary Distinction Prize for the Promotion of Culture in the Plateaux region at the PAMA (Plateaux All Music Awards);
2018: Participation in the MASA (Abidjan Performing Arts Market) singing category.
2018: RegSaf summit at the French Institute of Togo
2018: Nominated for the All Music Awards, ALMA, Special Awards category
2019: selection of the piece “fatinimè” by zambé for the Francophonie collection.
2020: Feel at home tour and participation in Goethe Live
2021: Participation in AFROFEST
albums:
Nouvelle terre 2013
feel at home 2016
Democracy 2018
Καλή χρονιά και καλές μουσικές!
Happy new year full of music!
Happy new year full of music!
World Style Ensemble
We have worked with the best musicians worldwide so far. Every artist is an expert on his instrument, even as a soloist. We have already played on the biggest stages. The aim of the group is to promote artistic activity around the world and in Munich.
Our musical styles include flamenco, jazz, rock, Crossover world music and evolved oriental jazz.
The spectrum of musical instruments ranges from guitar to clarinet, drums to bass. We present concerts as you can hear on the CD. The master of percussion is Andreas Keller. He is the real rhythm generator of the group.
Band Members : Andreas Keller Drums Thomas Sporrer Percussion Daniel Mark Eberhard Piano Alexander von Hagke Sax
Tommi Muller Bass
Robert Eibl cello
Luis Martin Navajas guitar
Lefteris Armyras guitar
Maged Kildan Oud
Kildan Qanun
All music is composed by Kildan. He plays the instrument Qanun, also as a soloist. There are also compositions by Maged Kildan, a master of the lute, also as a soloist.
We train and practice with all the other musicians and are always looking for new professional band members. Our dream is to play at world-class level.
We already have the most important things: photographers, film producers and sound engineers.
From Baghdad to Munich https://youtu.be/0rdw9HhKhrI
Live Concert Trailer 2021 https://youtu.be/QQOvySbOFwI
Contact
Wsemusic@hotmail.com
We have worked with the best musicians worldwide so far. Every artist is an expert on his instrument, even as a soloist. We have already played on the biggest stages. The aim of the group is to promote artistic activity around the world and in Munich.
Our musical styles include flamenco, jazz, rock, Crossover world music and evolved oriental jazz.
The spectrum of musical instruments ranges from guitar to clarinet, drums to bass. We present concerts as you can hear on the CD. The master of percussion is Andreas Keller. He is the real rhythm generator of the group.
Band Members : Andreas Keller Drums Thomas Sporrer Percussion Daniel Mark Eberhard Piano Alexander von Hagke Sax
Tommi Muller Bass
Robert Eibl cello
Luis Martin Navajas guitar
Lefteris Armyras guitar
Maged Kildan Oud
Kildan Qanun
All music is composed by Kildan. He plays the instrument Qanun, also as a soloist. There are also compositions by Maged Kildan, a master of the lute, also as a soloist.
We train and practice with all the other musicians and are always looking for new professional band members. Our dream is to play at world-class level.
We already have the most important things: photographers, film producers and sound engineers.
From Baghdad to Munich https://youtu.be/0rdw9HhKhrI
Live Concert Trailer 2021 https://youtu.be/QQOvySbOFwI
Contact
Wsemusic@hotmail.com
Who is Kicki Beatz ?
This article takes a closer look into his life highlighting his background, educational background, career journey, and his personal life details.
Kicki Beatz Age and Place of Birth
The artist was born on 16th July in 1997 to his parents Namyenya Irene and Mubiru Hamidu . His real name from birth is Ssentongo Timothy which he later adapted into his stage name Kicki Beatz . The family lived in Munyonyo , a Kampala suburb. At the age of six, Kicki Beatz started by playing a piano in his church at the home village were he mastered its sounds and was later invited in Esom school of music to acquire more skills in instruments.
Kicki Beatz Education Background
He attended school at Wakiso secondary school where he was taking up his Ordinary Level and then took his Advanced Level education from Old Kampala Secondary School. Kicki Beatz did not push further with school after his advanced level as he revealed in an interview that it was not his biggest forte.
Kicki Beatz Career Journey
His career in music has seen him explore the whole nine yards beginning from songwriting, singing, to production. He made sure to explore various genres since 2018 when he was twenty one years old. He did Dancehall, RnB, Hip hop, and Afrobeat expanding his Musical capacity. Kicki Beatz released the song Ndi wakitalo which plummeted his name onto the limelight. After several years he went into production where he got to work with tens of other artists in his career. Some of the songs he has produced include Ceasrous’s Dangerous , Sheebah Ft Runtown’s Weekend, and Bebe Cool’s Trouble.
Not only did he produce these songs, but also featured in some working with artists such as Pallaso in Binie geffa , Aria Schleyer Rich in Mbaayo, and Keem Fame Rich in Tuli Eno .
The artist is now signed to Famous Music Uganda Records in his multifaceted musical skills.
Kicki Beatz Personal Life
Kicki Beatz is rumored to be dating one Aria Schleyer Rich although the two have not made any comment on the same leaving fans in speculation. This comes after his engagement and relationship with pinky came to an end. Aria Schleyer Rich is a colleague of his at Famous music Uganda Records where she is also a signed artist. There were rumors that the two were expecting a child but that was proven false.
Real Name : Ssentongo Timothy
Age : 25 (As of 2022)
Nationality : Ugandan
Education Level : Advanced Secondary School
Place of Birth : Mulago Kampala
Birth Sign : Sagittarius
Year of Birth : 1997
Religion : Christianity
Spouse : Aria Schleyer Rich
Children : Unidentified
Profession/Career : Musical Artist, producer
Net Worth : $10,000
Ssentongo Timothy , professionally known as Kicki Beatz , is a Ugandan Singer, songwriter and musician Born on 16 July 1997 He is a native of kyadondo in Wakiso but born in Mulago Kampala District. At a young age, he took an interest in Doing music as influenced by her cousin sister Aria Schleyer Rich who is a professional vocalist . He is notable for his soulful music which he shared on Instagram however came through with his Classical album ‘’Abantu Tebayambika’’ that featured Hassan Ndugga. Kicki Beatz is a graduate in creative arts from the University of Kampala . His father Keem Fame Rich was a drama teacher. Career He began doing music numerous years back while in the university. He made a great deal of performances before he later settled on the name of Kicki Beatz . Kicki Beatz has been perceived in the business for his music and uniqueness of character. He has various awards, for example, The Future Awards Africa , Ugandan Prize for Comedy and City People Music Award for musical Act of the Year. Kicki Beatz house Kicki Beatz currently lives in Kampala, Uganda. Although the number of houses or properties he owns around and outside of Uganda is unknown at the moment.
Education
Keem Fame Rich had studies at Light secondary and vocational school bulenga were he later dropped out and joined Makerere business school were he acquired a certificate in Digital marketing and Computer software.
Career
Keem Fame Rich who is known fo let making music collaborations with music stars basically from Uganda he started sharing his music videos on social medias since 2019, but didn’t get enough attention due to his limited fan base then.
He came into the limelight in 2020 after he featured in several music and dance videos with popular musicians , influencers and content creators.
He first dropped his first album Home is Home which featured artist like Zex Bilangi , Ratigan era , Don Bwambale and so many others.
It worked out for him so well and he later dropped another album Lonely world which gained him more popularity across Uganda .
He is more popularly known for working with Pallaso and Juliet Zawedde and several others, not excluding one of Uganda’s famous influencer, Pallaso.
In recent time, Keem Fame Rich have gained wide recognition and prominence on social media driving tons of thousands of traffic to his page, after his music started going viral.
Keem Fame Rich’s Girlfriend
The young lad has kept his love and romantic life so private and out of social media. Therefore, any information regarding his girlfriend is inaccessible at the time of writing this article.
Keem Fe Rich Net Worth
Judging from the influence Keem Fame Rich has gotten so far, his net worth is likely to be within the range of $50,000 – $100,000.
Tara Novak delivers with her alt pop album 'Layers of Identity.' It's is a beautiful ode to life’s complexity, opening with a quirky pop song of love renewed and concluding with an uplifting reminder to live each moment to its fullest. This album tells a story that is both personal and universal.
Tara's voice is almost operatic as she carries each note with care and precision. Her orchestration elements in her songs create a sense of majesty and passion for her craft. Her lyrics reveal her purpose behind her album. Music connects us and 'Layers of Identity' is hopes to connect us through hope an love.
Listen here:
https://open.spotify.com/album/5zsSZHmJg9BQiy4Bh11cxl?si=NpJ1F_z6SPmf_Yna8YOMsA
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