Mid-terms are almost over, so I should be posting again regularly starting Tuesday. For now, I wanted to send over something to enjoy. From the East East website:
“This film, directed by Ricardo Lua and first released in 1985, exemplifies a non-hierarchical, ecological, and playful approach to music developed by Hermeto Pascoal—one of the most prominent multi-instrumentalists, composers, and experimenters in the Brazilian pop-music scene.”
Thanks to having to work on Saturday, I am unable to review anything today. In lieu of this, I give you a wonderful performance from the Malian treasures Tinariwen, the kings of Maghreb rock.
Today was a long work day at the school I teach at, so I leave you with the legendary Wire playing a Tiny Desk Concert from a few years ago. See you tomorrow.
I will be out and about thanks to a slight gout attack yesterday, so today I leave you with post-punk’s best kept secret, The Sound.
Roli Mossimann was a Swiss-American drummer and electronic musician who worked with some of the greatest of the no-wave bands to come out of New York City such as Swans, Foetus and their side project Wiseblood. He was an in-demand producer working with legends like New Order and Skinny Puppy, but the subject of today’s post is a short documentary on some of the amazing bands he worked with. Rest in peace.
From the Youtube link:
“Ecstatic Dances of the Whirling and Howling Dervishes of Turkey and Syria: http://store.arcmusic.co.uk/ecstatic-… The Mevlevi Order of the Whirling Dervishes was inaugurated in Turkey in 1273. This CD features dances of the Whirling Dervishes from Turkey and Syria. These are authentic field recordings by ethnomusicologist Deben Bhattacharya, made in 1974, 1972, 1960 and as far back as 1955, when the Mevlevis had to practise their religion in secrecy due to political and religious pressure. The booklet contains photographs and explanations of music and instruments.“
I will be preparing for travel and starting a new job in August, so no review today. I leave you with The Beaters, a rock band out of South Africa. From their YouTube page:
“Step into the pulsating rhythms of South African Afro-rock with The Beaters and their iconic album “Harari.” Released in 1975, this masterpiece encapsulates the spirit of a nation in transition, blending infectious grooves with soulful melodies to create a sound that is uniquely African yet universally appealing. Led by the charismatic Selby Ntuli on guitar and vocals, The Beaters underwent a profound transformation, embracing their African roots and infusing their music with a newfound sense of identity and purpose. Joined by the formidable rhythm section of Alec Khaoli on bass and Sipho Mabuse on drums, along with the talented Monty Ndimande on lead guitar, the band embarked on a musical journey that would redefine the landscape of South African music. “Harari” is a testament to The Beaters’ evolution as artists, as they seamlessly blend rock, funk, and indigenous influences to create a sound that is both timeless and revolutionary. Tracks like the title track “Harari,” “Push It On,” and “Thiba Kamoo” pulsate with energy and vitality, while soulful ballads like “Love Love Love” showcase the band’s versatility and depth. But “Harari” is more than just an album—it’s a statement of defiance and resilience in the face of adversity. As apartheid gripped the nation, The Beaters used their music as a platform for social change, delivering messages of hope and empowerment to audiences across South Africa. With their infectious rhythms and infectious spirit, they brought joy and inspiration to countless fans, proving that even in the darkest of times, music has the power to unite and uplift. As we listen to “Harari” today, we are reminded of the band’s enduring legacy and the impact they had on generations of musicians to come. Their music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, speaking to the universal themes of love, freedom, and the human experience. “
Sad news to report. Yabe Tadashi of United Future Organization, one of the best nu-jazz bands of the last three decades, has passed away. This is one of his finest moments, collaborating with singer Monday Michiru. Memory eternal, Yabe-san.
HT: Rocco Pandiani
I am busy today fixing a turntable I just picked up, so no posts today except to share this mellow piece of prog rock from Spain by the band Azahar.
Thanks to working on a family project, there will be no posts today.