Nomad's Playlist

The winds of change

2012-02-11T10:25:00.000Z

Just a quick post to let you know I've got lots of great changes coming up for NP.

I'm currently putting together some exciting stuff behind the scenes, and might even be changing blog hosts, so please stay posted!

But to keep you occupied while I get some of these changes going, here's an audio slideshow I've recently put together for a course. I'm thinking about enhancing it with some audio story telling over the top, but I'd love to know what you think. Enjoy!

I'm back! ...well almost

2012-02-06T23:23:00.000Z

Yoohoo! Remember me? The person who used to post regularly about world music?

Well, I'm finally back...sort of.

Staying true to my habit of telling people stories they really don't care about, I'll tell you why I disappeared. I had been hoping to connect the blog to my course Introduction to World Music, sharing videos/audio related to weekly topics in the course. But the course didn't run and I kind of gave up to focus on the blog that I get paid to write (Songlines in case you haven't checked that one out yet).

However, here I am again, mainly to encourage anyone even remotely interested to head on over to the Mary Ward Centre website and sign up for the next term of my Introduction to World Music course. It starts in April and is going to be great fun! (Please email me if you'd like any more information about the course)

In the meantime, I will try my best to post regularly with some good music and who knows, maybe some actual writing.

And so I leave you with this, my current favourite video (apologies for the explicit language, but it's a good track):

Balkan Beat Box (BBB) – 'Political F*ck'

This Week's Picks #52

2011-10-10T21:54:00.002+01:00

In a terrible and wound-up mood, I'm in need of a major cool down. So, apologies in advance but this week's playlist is a bit angsty and moody – something to chill out (or belt out) to.

Please enjoy!

"City of Refuge" - Abigail Washburn

Some good ol' banjo music from Bela Fleck's clawhammering wife, Abigail Washburn. Influenced by her time in China, Washburn's banjo playing is not quite what you expect for old fashion Americana. New sounds find there way into the folk strumming for sounds that are both familiar and very strange at the same time.

"You've Got the Kind of Nerve I Like" - Tiny Ruins

I heard this track on Mark Coles' 'The Shed: A Whole New World of Music' show several weeks ago and fell in love. There's something so sweet about this song and though a bit moody, it's just what I needed today.

"Run Away" - Sarah Jarosz

It's all about the lady singers today, and not only is Jarosz an amazing singer with a smooth voice that I can't get enough of, she's a spectacular instrumentalist. A virtuoso on the clawhammer banjo, acoustic guitar, and octave mandolin, there's not much this New England Conservatory student can't do.

This Week's Picks #51

2011-10-04T20:14:00.000+01:00

After taking a much needed break, I'm coming back atcha with some great tunes. Enjoy!

"Gorpuru" - Gurrumul
Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu is a blind Aboriginal singer and member of the Gumatj clan of north east Arnhemland. His debut album Gurrumul took the world by storm in 2009, making a name for indigenous music and artists. This track is from his recently released second album Rrakala, that appears to be receiving just as much acclaim as his debut.

"Unuttun Mu Beni" - Sezen Aksu

One of my new favourites is the Queen of Turkish Pop, Sezen Aksu. I can hear you asking, 'How can she be the Queen of Turkish Pop? I've never heard of her!' While I'm sure you are probably up-to-date on your pop queens, the album from which this is the first track, Öptum, is her 24th release and still only her first to make it beyond the borders of Turkey. I hope it will be the first of many.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-09-07T11:00:00.000+01:00

This week's reader pick comes from Susan Crocenzi.

"Leaving Soon" - Meklit Hadero

Hadero is an Ethiopian-born and San Francisco-based singer that is able to combine all her influences into beautiful and poetic jazz-fusion. Recently selected as one of Google's Artists of the week, US readers can download a few of her tracks here.

Have a great track you want posted? Let me know via Facebook, Twitter, email or in the comments below. And remember: Good music transcends language barriers & cultural differences. Great music blows your mind.

Middle Eastern Protest Singers Targeted

2011-09-03T20:22:00.000+01:00

Songlines magazine recently posted an evocative blog about protest singers in the Middle East and their oppression by the current regimes:

With the death toll rising from the ongoing Syrian uprising, one of the voices of the movement, 42-year-old singer Ibrahim Qashoush, has met a gruesome end at the hands of the regime’s security forces. Qashoush, a fireman and poet from the city of Hama in central Syria, had written and sung verses that had become popular features of the uprising in his city, calling on Bashar al-Assad to leave.
      On July 3, he disappeared and according to reports, his body was found in the city’s river with its throat cut and vocal cords ripped out. It suggests the brutality of the regime in the face of open articulation of dissent by protest singers and poets, though all reports from within Syria are impossible to verify due to the regime’s media blackout.
      Hear Qashoush leading the crowds in Hama on this YouTube clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QH57lRemXtw&feature=player_embedded
      Meanwhile, across the border in Lebanon, where Syria has for so long had a political as well as military presence, the uprising is building tensions. Beirut hipster Zeid Hamdan was jailed temporarily in July over slander charges he faces for defamation of the Lebanese president Suleiman in a song he posted on YouTube in August 2010. The track, ‘General Suleiman’, calls on not only the president, but also the country’s militiamen, corrupt politicians, arms dealers and foreign intelligence operatives to, ‘go home’.
     The 35-year-old musician is a veteran of Beirut’s outspoken independent music scene and used to be one half of the electronica fusion duo Soap Kills. Prosecutors will now decide whether to press formal charges in a Middle East climate of increasing discontent towards those in power.
     Judge the song for yourself at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L83n4zhg8Jw

See the original article here. You can also read my review of the Barbican's recent Night in Tahrir Square here.

This Week's Picks #50

2011-08-30T20:40:00.000+01:00

I am finally home after one of the longest weekends of my life – Shrewsbury Folk Festival. Now, to be fair, I'm not the biggest folk fan, but I do enjoy a few good bands. However, this weekend was not only complete with freezing cold, rain and blow away tents but also chock-full of tin whistle workshops at 8am, bagpipe workshops at 8am, more Morris dancing than you know what to do with and the most miserable punters you've ever met. To be fair, Shrewsbury is a great festival...for those that LOVE folk. It's on a beautiful site, has great sound, and full of interesting workshops and dancing. And the punters do love their folk and make you feel like you're selling a dirty magazine if it's filled with *gasp* world music.

Therefore in protest to this weekend, please enjoy this week's picks inspired by folk – as in this is as opposite of English folk as it gets.

"Secret Agent" - Tony Allen

Throw out the clogs and bring out the booty! This famous Nigerian drummer/singer-songwriter knows how to get down and doesn't spend time crying about the 'good old days'.

"Ina Mina Dika" - Goldspot

The Bollywood classic gets an indie remake by the American band Goldspot. Originally sung by Asha Bhosle and Kishore Kumar, this remake was recently heard in the film Today's Special.

"Blue Eyed Black Boy" - Balkan Beat Box

I've featured these guys a few times, but I really do like them that much. This is the title track from their latest album and you won't see any of those folkies jamming out to it.

How many folkies does it take to change a lightbulb? Two. One to change the bulb and one to write about how good the old one was.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-08-24T21:17:00.000+01:00

Well, there were no suggestions this week, so I'll post this beautiful video of the Malian songbird Fatoumata Diawara tweeted this afternoon by @SonglinesMag.

The track is 'Kanou' from Fatoumata's debut album (out 19 September). There is some really beautiful movement and cinematography in this video that makes me love the track even more.

This Week's Picks #49

2011-08-22T21:49:00.001+01:00

The kings of desert blues, Tinariwen, are in the news (hehe, that rhymes!) . This weekend The Observer gave away an eight-track live album by them (which you can still download here for a few more days), Songlines magazine is soon to feature them on their cover, an album set to be released at the end of the month, and their extensive autumn tour will include London's KOKO. So, in anticipation, this week's picks are all Tinariwen inspired.

"Tenere Taqhim Tossam" - Tinariwen feat. TV on the Radio

This is a track off Tinariwen's new album, Tassili, due to be released at the end of this month. This has got to be my favourite track by them so far. They are joined by Tunde Adebimpe and Kyp Malone of TV on the Radio, whose sound fits perfectly into Tinariwen's acoustic album.

"Nak Amadjar Nidounia" - Tamikrest

The younger Touareg blues band, Tamikrest, have been doing their best to keep up with the pace set by Tinariwen. They recently released an album Toumastin to rave reviews. This is my favorite track from that album.

"Adounia" - Bombino

It's unsurprising that the popularity of Tinariwen in the past decade has given birth to numerous Touareg rockers. The latest on the scene is Bombino, and he's good. I had the pleasure to briefly meet Bombino at this year's WOMAD, if only to say hello. I highly recommend checking out his debut album, Agadez.

Rhythm Passport

2011-08-20T11:53:00.000+01:00

With so many gigs, tours, shows and concerts out there, it is hard to know where to start looking. But, if you're free this weekend, next Tuesday, or even some evening in October, I've recently discovered a new website that makes it easier to find world music gigs and puts my 'Nomad's Calendar' to shame.

Rhythm Passport was recently launched and is a user-run event listings website that focuses on 'traditional world music to global beats'. Apologies to all my international readers, but Rhythm Passport is only UK-based, though that does not mean 'London-based'. You can find event listings from all over the UK.

The search allows you to filter by date, region, town, venue name as well as the country or continent the music is from. Another great feature is that the next 30 days worth of events are uploaded onto Facebook, making it easy to remind yourself of an upcoming gig you really wanted to check out.

Finally, the best feature of the site are the customised emailing list. If you register and adjust your email settings, the site will email you once a month with a list of events specifically tailored to your preferences (say, South American music in London, or bluegrass in Scotland). You need to register for this feature, but it's definitely worth it! You can register here.

You can check out the website here: www.rhythmpassport.com
Or their Facebook here: www.facebook.com/pages/Rhythm-Passport/170367249680012

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-08-17T19:15:00.000+01:00

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, I want to know what you listen to.

Send the review you've written and a link to the track on YouTube to my email. Please include the name you would like us to use as the author of the review (it can be your full name, first name, or user name). We will post up to three tracks in a given week.

Not really up for writing something? No problem, just send me the link to the track.

Now...what's on your stereo?

This Week's Picks #48

2011-08-15T21:47:00.000+01:00

On Thursday I went to Sadler's Wells to see the Tony Award-winning musical, FELA! It was a fantastic show with great music and even better dancing that tell the true story of Fela Kuti and his nightclub, The Shrine. As a result, I've had Fela's unique Afrobeat stuck in my head. So, please enjoy this week's picks, inspired by the legendary Fela Kuti.

"ITT (International Thief Thief)" - Fela Kuti

The Nigerian pioneer of Afrobeat, Fela Anikulapo Kuti was not only a legendary musician, but also a political activist, speaking when many would not. He set out to use his music as a weapon and fight the political corruption. This track was an attack on International Telegraph and Telecommunications.

"Dem Bobo" - Femi Kuti

The son of Fela, Femi is carrying the name of Afrobeat ambassador. Though one of Fela's other son's, Seun, is also continuing the tradition, I personally prefer Femi's music. 'Dem Bobo' is from Femi's most recent album Africa for Africa, which won the 2011 Songlines Music Award for Best Artist.

"Yellow Fever" - FELA!

Here's a sneak peek at a track from the musical FELA! The spectacular music and dancing make up for the jumpy story line. I highly recommended my London readers to pop over to Sadler's Wells and catch it before it leaves, and all my international readers to keep an ear out and definitely catch it if the show comes your way.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-08-10T21:10:00.001+01:00

This week's reader picks is coming at you from DJ Socrates.

'Kilimajaro' - The Shaolin Afronauts

Groovy. I'm loving this! The Shaolin Afronauts are a side project of the Adelaide band The Transatlantics and take their inspiration from 1970s Afrobeat.

This Week's Picks #47

2011-08-08T22:36:00.003+01:00

It's already been a week since I returned from WOMAD and I'm still reeling. I heard some amazing music despite the fact I was there to work and hope to share quick round up in the next few days. In the meantime, this week's picks are inspired by some of the music I heard. Enjoy!

"Galloping Horses" - AnDa Union

Like many attending this year's WOMAD Charlton Park, I was blown away by the Mongolian group AnDa Union. The combination of the two-stringed horse-headed fiddle and spectacular singing, this group is set to make it big. You can see a short clip of AnDa Union performing in the Songlines tent at WOMAD here, where you can hear the powerful voice of their singer.

"Karma Police" - Brassroots

Performing fun covers from the Charlie Gillett Stage, Brass Roots also became a quick favorite of mine. Their repertoire included greats like 'Karma Police' and 'Sweet Dreams' among others.

"Offsprunt" - Alejandro & The Magic Tombolinos

These guys have been everywhere this summer performing several festivals including Larmer Tree and WOMAD. A quintet of international musicians led by Argentinian sax man Alejandro Toledo, the Tombolinos really know how to get a crowd moving while playing their Gypsy stroke rock stroke Middle Eastern stroke Latin stroke a little bit of everything fusion.

World music icons, any thoughts?

2011-08-07T10:56:00.001+01:00

As some of you may have noticed, I am returning after almost a month's hiatus. I wish I could tell you that I had been traveling distant countries in search of good music, but instead I have been taking a much needed break. I would like to thank all those who have stuck around and assure you that Nomad's Playlist is back.

Now, on to more exciting business. Songlines magazine is asking for world music icon suggestions. Do you have an artist in mind that you think has changed the face of 'world music' or an artist is is chomping at the bit to follow in the footsteps of the greats? If so, hop on over to Songline's Facebook page and let them know. They will be putting some of the suggestions in their next issue.

http://www.facebook.com/songlines#!/songlines?sk=app_11007063052

For more details, read the Icons feature in their new issue (#78, August/September).

This Week's Picks #46

2011-07-11T23:00:00.002+01:00

This week's picks are inspired by some funky Ethiopian sounds. Please enjoy!

"Guragigna" - Dub Colossus

A band of musicians from London and Addis Ababa, these guys fuse dub and reggae with Ethio-Jazz to create some kicking tracks. I have been really enjoying the most recent album Addis Through the Looking Glass, of which this is the best track.

"Yekermo Sew" - Mulatu Astatke

I've featured another track by Mulatu, but here's one more. Mulatu is the father of Ethio-Jazz, though he might as well be the father of cool. *Sorry, that was pretty lame, but it's getting awful late and I'm really enjoying the chill factor of this track*

Meet the Musicians: Glenn Sharp

2011-07-09T09:47:00.003+01:00

In this series, we get to hear from the musicians themselves. This month, we hear from multi-instrumentalist Glenn Sharp.

Glenn has been working as a guitarist for many years and world music is his passion. His recent performances include flamenco, Latin, Arabic and African music.Glenn has worked as a session guitarist on numerous albums and has been a producer for many years. In addition to his solo performances, Glenn is the guitarist for flamenco group Calaita with singer Chico Pere. He has gigged and toured with numerous world-music artists including Nitin Sawhney and Aref Durvesh, and has colloborated with musicians from Nigeria, Sudan, India, Spain, Palestine and Egypt.

1. How long have you been performing and what inspired you to get into music?

I have been gigging now for 20 years. All sorts of performances, from events groups to solo classical recitals, hip-hop, jazz, experimental electronica and finally ‘world music’, flamenco in particular. When I was eight years old, I heard my next door neighbour playing guitar. I don’t think she realised at the time that she was to be my teacher every week for the next five or so years! I discovered flamenco in 1996. I saw a Paco Peña gig and the next morning I changed everything and dedicated to myself to learning flamenco guitar. Been hooked ever since!

2. What or who are your influences?

Far too many to mention, so I will just concentrate on the more recent ones. My guitar hero is Gerardo Nuñez, who is also a fantastic composer, my saz hero is without doubt, Erkan Oğur (also a wonderful composer) and my oud favourites are Simon Shaheen, Nasser Shamma and Nizar Rohana. I would say my biggest influences are Erkan Oğur, Trio Joubran, Yasmin Levy, Vicente Amigo, Goksel Baktagir, Yair Dalal as well as classical composers such as Gorecki, Duruffle, Verdi and Arvo Pärt.

3. What are your all-time favorite albums?

Anadolu Beşik and Gülün Kokusu Vardı by Erkan Oğur

Duquende y la guitarra de Tomatito

Ganoub - en arabe vent dire sud

Maqamat Ziryab by Simon Shaheen

Koyaanisqatsi by Philip Glass

Ciudad de las Ideas by Vicente Amigo

Vision by Tarik Banzi

Verdi Requiem

East meets East by Nigel Kennedy and Kroke

Miles_Gurtu by Robert Miles and Trilok Gurtu

Power to the Women by Madosini

Sounds of Sudan

Berber Blues by Cherifa

Rise by Anoushka Shankar

Everything by Le Trio Joubran, Camarón, and Gerardo Nuñez

4. What are you listening to right now?

The Silimbo Passage by Seckou Keita–amazing combination of kora and Egyptian violin with some flamenco vibes!

5. Have any upcoming gigs/shows we should know about?

Working on a collaboration with percussionist Guy Schalom for gigs later this year; a fusion of Flamenco and Arabic music with Flamenco dance. All my other forthcoming dates available at www.myspace.com/glennsharpworld

Hear samples of tracks from Glenn's latest album with the Jadid Ensemble: www.jadidensemble.com
Read my review of the Jadid Ensemble review: http://nomadsplaylist.blogspot.com/2011/01/album-review-sigh-of-moor-by-jadid.html

This Week's Picks (#45)

2011-07-06T00:14:00.000+01:00

I just got back from a fantastic show at the Barbican featuring Angelique Kidjo, Dianne Reeves and Lizz Wright, three of the most amazing voices on one stage. So, here are a few videos for this week's picks before I head to bed. Enjoy!

"Malaika" - Angelique Kidjo

"I Put a Spell on You" - Dianne Reeves

"Amazing Grace" - Lizz Wright

Album Review: Resonance/Dissonance by Khyam Allami

2011-07-02T17:34:00.001+01:00

Album: Resonance/Dissonance
Artist: Khyam Allami
Release Date: On sale (June 2011)
Genre/Region: Middle Eastern

The oud (Middle Eastern lute) is a beautiful instrument to begin with, but when combined with Khyam Allami's musical sensitivity, it is divine. Resonance/Dissonance is the debut album of a young artist who has already had quite an amazing career. With degrees from the School of Oriental and African Studies, he has gone on to be the first recipient of the World Routes Academy scholarship from BBC Radio 3 and world class performer.

I attended Khyam's album launch on May 4th and was impressed. He ran through each track in order and offered a beautiful preview of the upcoming album (which was to include a DVD of performances). I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy of his album. When I finally did, I was not disappointed.

Though this is Khyam's debut album, he did not treat it as such. It is bold and ambitious. Risky for a first release, it was a risk worth taking. Khyam's solo oud weaves poetic melodies, at times dark and soulful. Joined by percussionist Vasilis Sarikis, Khyam pieces together an album that is meaningful and intense. His website states, 'conceptually, it is filtered through a life in London influenced by myriad figures; the work of C.G. Jung, the mysticism of Jorge Luis Borges, the independence and forward thinking of Frank Zappa, and Secret Chiefs 3, the ingenuity of various masters of Middle Eastern music such as Hossein Ali Zadeh, Naseer Shamma and Riyadh al-Sunbati.'

As an album with such a range of inspirations, it comes as no surprise that it takes the listener for a ride through a variety of emotions. A quiet and thoughtful beginning, the album opens with the track 'Individuation'. Building upon a very simple and yet elegant melodic theme, the track is pensive but not calm. Then the album moves through semi-improvisations that are all as intense and thoughtful. It features graceful moments of simplicity as well fiery passages of virtuosity. Ultimately, the album rests and reflects with final track, 'Reverie.'

If this all sounds like flowery, over-indulgent praise, have a listen for yourself. Khyam is not only blessed with a virtuosity for which all musicians strive, but a sense of musicality and musical passion that cannot be learned.

You can hear a preview of the album on Khyam's website: www.khyamallami.com

This Week's Picks (#44)

2011-06-28T19:29:00.000+01:00

With a crazy week behind me and another crazy week ahead, this week's picks are much more relaxing than usual. Here are some tracks for those in need of a moment to catch their breath. Please enjoy!

"The Tourist" - Sarah Jarosz

Sarah Jarosz is a talented singer/songwriter from Texas, known for her striking voice and brilliant guitar/banjo/mandolin playing. This track is from her newest album Follow Me Down and is an excellent cover of the Radiohead song.

"Hingala!" - Djivan Gasparyan

Recently, when I am in need of a moment of peace, I have found myself putting on the track "Chiraki Par" from the album Blind Note. The track features the beautiful Armenian duduk and is unfortunately not up on YouTube. Here instead is renown duduk master, Djivan Gasparyan. Gasparyan has played with several big artists including Peter Gabriel, Sting and Hans Zimmer.

This Week's Picks (#43)

2011-06-21T21:34:00.000+01:00

Once again, I find myself apologising for the tardiness of my posts. Let's see if I can get back on track. I hope you enjoy this week's picks in the meantime.

"Tawazon I: Balance" - Khyam Allami

This is a track from Khyam Allami's brand new album (released last week) Resonance/Dissonance. I recently attended Allami's album launch, and while I've enjoyed listening to this rising oud star for the past few years, his concert was really something special. I hope to post a review of Allami's new album soon, but in the meantime please enjoy this track and pick up the album yourself.

"Sunshine Day" - Osibisa

And now for something completely different...this should make your hips shake, feet tap, or at the very least, head nod. Osibisa is an Afro-pop band started in the 1970s that claim to have contributed to the founding of 'World Music'.

John Statz- Kickstarter

2011-06-10T20:46:00.002+01:00

John Statz put together a fantastic album last year (reviewed here) and is planning his next venture for a fourth studio album. This August, he will be working with the legendary producer Bo Ramsey to release a new album, Old Fashioned.

His last album was something really special, but with the help of Bo Ramsey, I expect the new album to blow it out of the water. Statz is using Kickstarter to help fund the project and needs your help. Visit his campaign page to pledge and receive some really cool stuff, I promise it will be worth it!

Album Review: Sol by Aurn Shenoy

2011-06-04T10:41:00.000+01:00

Album: Sol
Artist: Arun Shenoy
Release Date: October 30, 2010
Genre/Region: Fusion, Flamenco, Jazz

This four track EP is a preview of the full length album Rhythm of the Sun scheduled to be released mid-2011. While the running time is quite short and I look forward to hearing the full length album, this is a great preview of what is to come.

Ambitiously, Shenoy tries to update the flamenco sound, fusing it with jazz and rock. For the most part, he is successful. Flamenco works remarkably well with jazz sensibilities. The first and best track on the EP is "Rhythm of the Sun" and is a prime example of this. Sensual rhythms support a weaving, jazzy piano and create a deliciously seductive track. The track "Sleepy Town" is another great example of fusion gone right, though it is less jazzy than the first piece.

The other two tracks, however, fall short. "The Violin Song" begins with a very flamenco sound and has promise. Unfortunately, after a minute or so, a very pop-ish drum beat kicks in and the track takes a turn for the worse. "Wanderlust In Keys" is very much the same- lots of potential overshadowed by synthesizer and drum beats.

Despite that, when Shenoy fuses jazz and flamenco well, he creates beautiful sounds and a sensual atmosphere. Overall, this is a promising preview of Shenoy's upcoming album.

You can listen to tracks and watch videos of Arun Shenoy on his website or Facebook:
Official Facebook page: http://facebook.com/ArunShenoyMusic
Official Website: http://arunshenoy.com

This Week's Picks (#42)

2011-05-30T16:00:00.000+01:00

I know it's been a while since I've posted, but I assure you that I have some great stuff coming up including some album reviews. So stay posted and in the meantime, please enjoy this week's picks!

"Dois Nordestes" - Matuto

Matuto is Brazilian slang for "country boy" or "country bumpkin" and that's exactly what this band brings to the table. The music is very "Carnival meets a jazzy Appalachia" as a fun blend of Brazilian rhythms, bluegrass and jazz improv.

"Tabsakh Dalet" - Bombino

A Tuareg from Niger, Bombino (Omara Moctar) is recognized as a great guitarist of the Sahel and Sahara regions. Bombino is the focus of a new film, Agadez by filmmaker Ron Wyman about Tuareg blues. He has also recently released a new album by the same name.

This Week's Picks (#41)

2011-05-16T22:42:00.000+01:00

This weekend, London will be the battlefield for the Battle of the Balkan Brass. It will feature Fanfare Ciocarlia and Boban & Marko Markovic Orchestra, fighting to see who is the best Balkan brass band. To get in the mood, here are some great Balkan brass tunes.

"Manea Cu Voca" - Fanfare Ciocarlia

Let's start with the groups about to battle it out. Fanfare Ciocarlia is a gypsy brass band from Northern Romania. This track is from their 1999 release Baro Biao. Fun and energetic, it's easy to see why they are in the running for best Balkan brass band.

"Voz" - Boban Markovic Orkestar (featuring Marko Markovic)

And in the second corner, Boban & Marko Marko Markovic Orkestar. This group is from Serbia and the track is from the album The Promise. It is more subdued than most of their tracks, but just as fun. It's going to be a close battle.

"Paradehtika" - Goran Bregovic

Another heavy weight of the Balkan brass bands is Goran Bregovic. Bregovic, however, tends to fuse other styles in with the Balkan brass including tango and popular music. This track is from his album Alkohol, which won last year's Songlines Music Awards for best artist.

Happy Birthday to Nomad's Playlist!

2011-05-15T20:57:00.002+01:00

One year ago, I came up with the idea that people might be interested in music I've found via various media. As it turns out, not quite as many people are as interested as I had expected, but one year later and I've got a fantastic group of readers and have found a lot of great music. Looks like my blog is all grown up now.

In celebration of NP's one year anniversary, I've decided to collect some of my favorite videos from the past year. I hope you enjoy!

"Pesebre"- Axel Krygier featured in April

"A Namorada" - Carlinhos Brown featured in March

"Music for a Found Harmonium" - Penguin Cafe featured in February

"Djon Maya" - Victor Démé featured in February

"Crazy Train" - Iron Horse featured in January

"Santa Maria (Del Buen Ayre)" - Gotan Project featured in January

"Yegelle Tezeta" Mulatu Astatke featured in November

"Mast Qalandar" by Faiz Ali Faiz and Titi Robin featured in October

"Jolie Coquine" by Caravan Palace featured in August

Meet the Musicians: Charlie Cawood

2011-05-14T10:43:00.001+01:00

In this series, we get to hear from the musicians themselves. This month, I have interviewed the London-based musician and composer Charlie Cawood.

Charlie began lessons at the age of 11, studying classical guitar and theory, as well as electric guitar. After GCSEs he skipped A-Levels and went straight to the Guitar Institute, where I became versed in the dark arts of rock fusion and jazz harmony. He has also studied Flamenco, Indian and Chinese music, as well as attended Sound Design courses at Point Blank Music Production school. Hold holds a Masters Degree in Music Performance at the School of Oriental and African Studies.

1. How long have you been performing and what inspired you to get into music?

I've been playing music for over 11 years and performing professionally for 6 of them. I was originally inspired by Rock/Metal bands, but a big change occurred when I discovered Indian classical music and flamenco. This naturally led to me getting into all kinds of world music, as well as electronica, contemporary classical and jazz.

2. What or who are your influences?

Broadly speaking, I'm influenced by any artist who uses their creativity to explore deeper levels of themselves and strives to forge their own individual creative/artistic identity. This includes music, but also literature, film and visual art.

3. What are your all-time favorite albums?

10,000 Days by Tool

Pandemonium by Killing Joke

Rant in E Minor by Bill Hicks

Eternal Wheel by Ozric Tentacles

Kid A by Radiohead

Sing To God by Cardiacs

Monoliths and Dimensions by Sunn 0)))

That list is off the top of my head, and totally inadequate!

4. What are you listening to right now?

At the moment, I'm listening quite a bit to an English band called Cardiacs, who, despite their musical and creative brilliance, remain relatively obscure. The last album I listened to was Music of the Mind by an English Jazz musician called Finn Peters. On this album, he creates compositions based on his own brain-wave patterns, to astounding effect. I'm also slowly getting into John Zorn's expansive back catalogue, as well as Cocteau Twins, Amon Tobin and the Master Musicians of Jajouka.

5. Have any upcoming gigs/shows we should know about?

In April, I recently performed a gig with Rachel Hatfield, a singer-songwriter I'm currently working with, as well as at the Turkish Cultural Festival in Tottenham, playing Turkish Gypsy music with clarinettist Nicki Maher. Rehearsals with also be starting soon with Spiders of Destiny, a Frank Zappa cover band I play in, so with any luck we'll be playing live within a few months!

http://www.myspace.com/charliecawoodmusic

You can hear tracks by Charlie on his MySpace page, listed above.

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2011-05-12T19:24:00.000+01:00

Some of the great shows coming up this weekend!

May 12th Thursday 7:00pm: OuterIndia: Shusheela Raman @ Rich Mix (35 - 47 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA) £8/11 We are proud to announce the trailblazing OUTERINDIA residency at Rich Mix on the second Thursday of each month. OUTERINDIA will weave a web of intense links between London, the Subcontinent and the world, showcasing visionary artists in the musical, visual and written arts. Celebrating the variety and influence of South Asian culture, OUTERINDIA is all about channeling the breadth of work by artists born in the Subcontinent, the Diaspora or drawn to the culture from outside, and offering it to the eyes and ears of London in new and magical ways.
May 12th Thursday 7:00pm: Gypsy Fever @ Green Note (106 Parkway NW1 7AN) £8 Gypsy Fever is a five-piece Gypsy band from London. Fusing their Balkan and Anglo-Saxon heritage, they draw inspiration from diverse musical backgrounds including jazz, rock, Balkan gypsy, folk and classical to create a unique sound all of their own.
May 15th Sunday 7:00pm: Amira Kheir @ Green Note (106 Parkway NW1 7AN) £6 Sudanese-Italian singer/songwriter Amira Kheir is creating a sound that is inspired by traditional Sudanese singing and instrumentation, and blended with elements of Jazz, Soul, East and West African as well as Middle Eastern music.

Can't make any of these? Then, check out Nomad's Calendar for details on other upcoming shows.

This Week's Picks (#40)

2011-05-10T00:03:00.000+01:00

For some reason, I'm in an East African mood. Therefore, this week's picks are from the beautiful country of Kenya. Please enjoy!

"Sandore" - Suzanna Owiyo

Suzanna Owiyo is a Kenyan artist from Kenya. Owiyo uses a fusion of traditional western Kenyan music and contemporary rhythms. Using both contemporary and traditional instruments including the nyatiti (Kenyan harp), Owiyo creates a music that is fun, danceable and unforgettable. This track is from her 2009 album Mama Africa. I would also like to point out that Owiyo owns the best pants suit I've ever seen.

"Otenga" - Kenge Kenge

Also from Western Kenya, Kenge Kenge explores Benga influences. Benga evolved as a genre in the 1940s to 60s in Nairobi. Kenge Kenge performs Luo Benga which involves several traditional instruments including nyatiti, bul drums, the nyangile sound box, ongeng’o metal rings, asili flute, and the oporo horn.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-05-04T11:00:00.001+01:00

Yikes! I just realized I've missed an entire week! Time flies when you're having fun! I hope this week's reader picks makes up for lost time. This pick comes from reader DJ Socrates. Enjoy!

"Cordão da Insônia" - Cèu

Cèu is a Brazilian singer-songwriter and this track is from her latest album, Vagarosa.

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2011-04-21T22:29:00.000+01:00

Be sure not to miss some of the great shows coming up this weekend! Can't make any of them? Then, check out Nomad's Calendar for details on other upcoming shows.

April 22nd Friday 1:00pm: Teymour Housego @ Clore Ballroom (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) FREE Teymour Housego has established himself as one of the UK's leading multicultural flautists. He has collaborated with numerous musicians, including Nitin Sawhney, Talvin Singh and Jethro Tull amongst others, and co-founded the flamenco fusion group Alcazaba. For this Alchemy appearance, he previews some tracks from his new album Haunting Bazaar, with co-composer the brilliant French guitarist and singer Yves Mesnil and a selection of other musicians.
April 22nd Friday 7:45pm: Melissa Laveaux @ Purcell Room (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £17.50 Twenty-four-year-old Haitian singer Mélissa Laveaux came to world attention in 2009 with music that evokes the spirit of her homeland. The music is drawn from a deep and intimate knowledge of the global musical milieu, a bilingual raw mix of acoustic soul/jazz and percussive Creole folklore - a fresh offering to the folk scene. Her lyrics, recited in her soulful and original voice, evoke Joni Mitchell, Macy Gray, Nina Simone and Rokia Traoré.
April 23rd Saturday 8:00pm: Fernado's Kitchen @ Rich Mix (35 - 47 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA) £8/11 Fernando’s Kitchen presents a Nu World music night, featuring Fernando’s Kitchen band, performing as a 6 piece line–up of spanish guitar, double-bass, oud, flamenco cajon, percussions, vocals, and trumpet. Fernando’s Kitchen is a group of multi-cultural musicians, performing their very own modern Flamenco Latin and North African music, also called Nu world music. A fusion of passionate guitar and oud melodies, exciting rhythms and mesmerising vocal
April 24th Sunday 8:00pm: Afri-Kokoa @ Rich Mix (35 - 47 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA) £7/10 On this great occasion we have the pleasure of featuring a truly innovative musical fusion of contemporary Afro-jazz (a mix of Afro-Funk and jazz) that is ‘Helele’ – a live six-piece outfit, composed of the balafon, saxophone, bass, guitar, drum and percussion. Founded in 1994 by founder Alphonse D Touna from Cameroon. A multi-skilled talented musician, composer, performer and musical instrument designer.
April 24th Sunday 8:30pm: Talvin Singh and Niladri Kumar @ Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £11/14 A breathtaking evening of music created by two uniquely innovative musicians. Talvin Singh is known for his groundbreaking style, creating original sounds by juxtaposing Indian traditions and modern European aesthetics. He is primarily a tabla player, as well as a producer and composer, based in London. Niladri Kumar is a fifth generation sitar player with a fresh, experimental approach to his instrument known for his exploratory style of performance.

Did I miss a gig coming up this weekend? Let me know and I'll be sure to post it.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-04-20T19:14:00.000+01:00

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.

And come on readers! I'm sick of hearing my own picks!!

How do I get my review posted?
Send the review you've written and a link to the track on YouTube to our email. Please include the name you would like us to use as the author of the review (it can be your full name, first name, or user name). We will post up to three tracks in a given week.

I have a great track I would like to share, but I don't want to write a review. Can I still share it?
Of course! Please send us an email with a link to the track on YouTube and we might include the track in our "This Week's Picks" series.

This Week's Picks (#39)

2011-04-18T23:15:00.000+01:00

A slightly brief version of "This Week's Picks" for you this week, but I hope you enjoy none-the-less!

"Untitled" - Mumford and Sons

While these guys have become giants on the folk/rock scene mainly for their ability to make folk more accessible to the younger generation, I came across a great list of 10 of their lesser known songs. Ever since stumbling across this, I've had this track stuck in my head and I love it. I have to admit that one of my weaknesses is great harmony. If you have a track with fantastic harmony, I love it. And I just melt to the harmonies in this track. Plus, I still think you can't go wrong with electric banjo.

"Pesebre"- Axel Krygier

This song features bleating sheep. How can you not love it? I used to like this song just because it was so weird, but it really grows on you. Even better, I saw the Argentinian Axel Krygier live last night at KOKO, and boy can that guy put on a live show!? He is amazing live, always moving and so incredibly full of energy. It makes me love this track even more.

Machester's Cultural Collage World Music Festival

2011-04-16T15:02:00.001+01:00

For those of you who live in or around Manchester, here is a fantastic festival coming your way in a few weeks. Mark your calendars!

The Manchester Cultural Collage World Music Festival will celebrate it's second year this May. The festival was started last year by a group of volunteers and attracted almost 10,000 people at the various events.

This year the festival will take place various venues around Manchester between May 5th and 14th, 2011. There are 25 events across 14 different venues and it will feature some fantastic acts including the multimedia drumming band Djembekan (Ivory Coast, Guinea, Argentina, France, UK), Kanda Bongo Man Band and Dancers (DR Congo), Alejandro Toledo & The Magic Tombolinos (Balkan), Niko Paterakis (Greece), Gorilla Chilla (Bangladesh), Ska Cubano (Jamaica, Cuba, UK) and the world premiere of Ano Throsko:A Musical for the 21st Century featuring over 30 musicians.

For a detailed list of the festival's events, please visit their programme.

http://culturalcollageworldmusicfestival.org.uk
To see photos from last year's festival: http://www.flickr.com/photos/50049709@N04/

I would love to see and hear about how much fun you had attending this festival. If you plan on attending any of the Cultural Collage World Music Festival, please email me a letter or send me photos and I will post them on a "Festival Fun" follow-up.

Meet the Musicians: Dominik Johnson

2011-04-15T11:26:00.002+01:00

In this new series, we get to hear from the musicians themselves. This month, I have interviewed Manchester multi-instrumentalist and virtual session musician Dominik Johnson.

Dominik Johnson

Dominik is multi-instrumentalist, session player, composer and producer based in Manchester and specialises in plucked instruments. His passion is creating Instrumental World Music for Film, TV and Media productions and creates 'Library Music' for one of the top production music companies, such as London's 'Felt Music Library'.

1. How long have you been recording and what inspired you to get into music?

I've been recording professionally, both as an recording artist and session player, for around five years now. My passion lies in recording productions rather than performances, but I love collaborations with other musicians and producers in the studio. My early years of music began with a keen interest in the Spanish/Classical guitar and the Renaissance lute. It's from this repertoire an that my interest in 'World Music' evolved.

2. What or who are your influences?

My musical influences range from all kinds of traditional folk music from all over the world...

I take a keen interest on Spanish, Indian, Latin, Mediterranean and Chinese traditional music, but I'm not a purist. I like to create my own style using influences from these traditions. One of my biggest musical influences is Julian Bream - I consider him to be one the finest musicians and spanish guitarists around - I'm surprised how many UK 'spanish guitarists' have never heard of him!

3. What are your all-time favourite albums?

Titi Robin - Un ciel de cuivre

Julian Bream - The Woods So Wild

Bassekou Kouyaté & Ngoni Ba- Segu Blue

4. What are you listening to right now?

I'm currently listening to a lot of pipa music from Liu Fang.
(Click here to hear a pipa solo by Liu Fang)

5. Have any upcoming gigs/shows we should know about?

I very rarely do any live performances as I've not found the right musicians yet to be on stage with. I'm also never quite happy with the sound quality of a lot of venues.

But I have been involved with a World Music project called 'Ano Throsko' run by Greek artist Niko Paterakis. The show is on May 7th 2011 in Manchester and it involves over 30 musicians, playing all kinds of instruments. If you have an interest in fusion music - the show is for you.

www.dominikjohnson.com

www.twitter.com/DJohnsonMusic

You can hear Dominik talk about his music here:

The Multi-Instrumentalist from Marinos Bebop on Vimeo.

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2011-04-14T11:00:00.001+01:00

Summer is certainly on its way and the concerts are starting to pile up. If you're looking for something fun to see and hear this weekend, just check out all the great gigs coming up in London.

April 14th Thursday 6:00pm: OuterIndia: Susheela Raman @Rich Mix (35 - 47 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA) £8adv/£11door Outerindia weaves a web of intense links between London, the Subcontinent and the world, showcasing visionary artists in the musical, visual and written arts. Celebrating the variety and influence of South Asian culture, OUTERINDIA is all about channeling the breadth of work by artists born in the Subcontinent, the Diaspora or drawn to the culture from outside, and offering it to the eyes and ears of London in new and magical ways.
April 14th Thursday 7:00pm: Orkestra Del Sol @ Dingwalls (Camden Lock, NW1 8AB) £6/11 "The swagger of a Balkan wedding with the riotous energy of a Latin carnival!" The 9-piece brass band from Edinburgh is back with a new album! "Magnificent!" The Independent "The genius of the Orkestra is the way they hide serious musicianship inside tongue-in-cheek humour. It's a winning combination" The Scotsman
April 15th Friday 7:45pm: Bolivian, Latin American, Italian and French Music @ Purcell Room (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £14 Marcos Puña is undoubtedly one of the best young Bolivian classical guitarists. In his debut concert at Southbank Centre, he performs a programme of Latin American and Bolivian music including masterpieces by Abel Carlevaro (Uruguay), Dilermando Reis (Brazil) and Manuel Ponce (Mexico). Bolivia is represented in his recital by composers Eduardo Caba, whose Kollavina is inspired by ancestral indigenous rhythm, and Matilde Casazola, whose five pieces are rooted in rich Bolivian folklore.
April 15th Friday 8:00pm: Raghu Dixit Project @ Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £10-20 Raghu Dixit's remarkable rise has been nothing short of spectacular. The former Bharatanatyam dancer's rousing folk rock is not only the symbol of metropolitan India's blossoming alternative music
scene, but is also making waves internationally. Alchemy 2011 marks the beginning of an exciting two-year collaboration with Southbank Centre Resident Artists, dance artist Gauri Sharma Tripathi and British folk band Bellowhead, in collaboration with the British Council.
April 15th Friday 8:15pm: Jahan E Khusrau: Anjuman E Dil @ Royal Festival Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £15-35 A rare opportunity to experience the renowned devotional and Punjabi folk music exponent Hans Raj Hans, with Sufi lyrics selected and composed by Muzaffar Ali. A vocal artist who effortlessly encompasses these traditions and has worked alongside other renowned artists such as the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Hans Raj Hans has a unique ability to present Sufi music in its truest form. The evening is shared with Sufi Kathak exponent and devotional dance specialist Manjari Chaturvedi.
April 17th Sunday 6:00pm: Soumik Datta's Circle of Sound @ Purcell Room (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £13 An explosive audio-visual encounter between two virtuoso stars of contemporary British Asian music. London-born Soumik Datta is one of the UK's most brilliant South Asian musicians and is an artist in residence at this year's Alchemy festival.A spectacular player of the sarod, a muscular plucked instrument of the Indian classical tradition, Soumik collaborates with Austrian-born drummer Bernhard Schimpelsberger (Taalis) who plays a Western drum kit like a tabla virtuoso.

Can't make it to any of these? Check out the Nomad's Calendar for a full list of upcoming events.

Know of a great gig/concert coming up that isn't listed? Email me and I'll post it on the calendar.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-04-13T10:09:00.000+01:00

This week reader Discobethan introduces us to some fantastic Latvian music. Enjoy!

"Likais" - Auli

The group Auļi take the deep musical heritage of their native Latvia and push the possibilities of using only drums and bagpipes to make amazing, loud, rhythmic music, blurring the lines between world and folk, between traditional and contemporary. It's part of the redefining of indigenous Latvian culture in the post-Soviet republic, after centuries of occupation.

Live, they're astonishing. Raw power and energy fills the room and infects everyone with sound and rhythm. Their music slips between definitions yet appeals to many, and they've played at darkwave, metal, medieval and folk festivals. It's world in the best sense - a group of passionate people bringing their culture to the global stage in a new way while never losing sight of what makes them unique. Their pulsing sounds infuse ancient music with modern, vital life.

The group formed in 2003 with nine Latvian men and one Estonian woman, who play drums, bagpipes and stringed instrument called a giga. The bagpipes are traditional to the Baltics, part of the great European-wide pipe culture. Historical records talk about drum and bagpipe troupes but no music has survived. So the group takes traditional melodies and plays with them as well as composing original pieces. In Latvian the word 'auļi' has two meanings: 'gallop', representing the rhythm of drums; and 'beehives on the tree' - the sound of drones. Auļi has released three critically-acclaimed albums and the latest, Etnotranss (Ethnotrance) won Best Folk Music Album 2010 at the Latvian Music Awards as well as the 2010 Folklore Award for 'Creativity based in traditional culture'.
(Written by Discobethan)

This Week's Picks (#38)

2011-04-11T21:39:00.001+01:00

Wow, I just realized I'm approaching my 1 year anniversary! Just over a month to go. Exciting! In the mean time, I hope you enjoy this week's picks.

"O Ou Ni Sou" - Rokia Traoré

This track is from Rokia Traoré's killer album, Tchamantché released in 2008. This album was recently picked by Songlines magazine as one of their top 75 albums. This relaxed track makes it obvious why this album was chosen. A soft steel drum in the background perfectly accompanies Rokia's sophisticated voice. While this is definitely a contemporary sound, it is wonderfully and distinctly African at the same time.

"Lemba" - Muntu Valdo

I have spent a lot of time listening to and loving Muntu's music. This track is from his new album The One & The Many (out today!) but the video is of live performance, which is where Muntu shines. Using an elaborate pedal board, he pulls off an impressive one-man-band sound, playing everything himself.

"Many Things" - Seun Kuti and Egypt 80

In tribute to the concert I will be missing on Wednesday, here's some funk from Seun Kuti, Fela Kuti's youngest son. Seun just released his newest album From Africa With Fury: Rise and is touring. On Wednesday he and the Egypt 80 will be performing at the Royal Festival Hall and I will sadly miss the show. It should be a great one, and if you go, please write a review and let me know how it was. This track however, is from an older album Many Things.

Enjoy these? Have some tracks you'd like to share? Let me know via Twitter and I'll post it on Wednesday's Reader Picks!

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-04-06T20:29:00.000+01:00

This week's reader picks are coming at ya from DJ Socrates. Enjoy!

"Knyon Mun Sok Jet Te" - Cambodian Space Project

Cambodian Space Project was co-founded by Srey Chanthy and Julien Poulson and offers some great Cambodian music! This track is a cover of the hit by Pan Ron, who we've also featured.

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.

This Week's Picks (#37)

2011-04-04T10:00:00.000+01:00

I hope you enjoy this week's picks!

"Ndakuvara"- Oliver Mtukudzi

Oliver Mtukudzi is a Zimbabwean guitarist. He started began playing in the band Wagon Wheels with Thomas Mapfumo. He has since struck a name for himself, recording 59 albums. Though he was not as politically outspoken as Mapfumo, this particular track was directed at the Zimbabwe's president Mugabe, and the political violence organised by his party.

"Gypsy Part of Town" - J.U.F.

I can't help myself. I love this stuff. I have featured the band, Balkan Beat Box several times, but this is the collaboration of Gorgol Bordello and BBB. J.U.F. stands for Jüdisch-Ukrainische Freundschaft inspired by German industrial band Deutsch-Amerikanische Freundschaft, who got their name from the GDR state organization Deutsch-Sowjetische Freundschaft (German-Soviet Friendship).

"Eddeaa" - Abjeez

These guys not only make some fun music, but fun videos! Abjee is Persian for "sister" as the two main singers Safoura and Melody Safavi are sisters. Abjeez is a "Persian world-pop" band, as they've deemed themselves, and write songs with often humorous lyrics and a lot of fun to listen to and watch.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-03-30T13:00:00.000+01:00

I know I know. I didn't get to the "This Week's Picks" on Monday. Sorry. I have been overwhelmed by work...but I'm sure you don't care. But... I promise to make it up to you today!
This week's Reader Pick comes from BelindaJ75 and I'm really loving it! Maybe, I'm just in the right mood for this, but this track SO hits the spot today! So...please enjoy!

"Codine" by Jason Isbell and the 4000 Unit

This is a track from Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit's yet-to-be-released album, Here We Rest. The album releases on April 12, 2011. Jason Isbell hails from northern Alabama, which was hit hard in the recent economic downturn. “The mood here [on Here We Rest] has darkened considerably,” says Jason.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-03-23T20:24:00.000Z

What are you listening to?

This Week's Picks (#36)

2011-03-22T00:30:00.002Z

I was listening through the "Life of Songlines in 75 albums" playlist today and one of the tracks was from Cedric Watson's self-titled album. I love this track and it put me in a real zydeco mood. So I hope you enjoy this week's Creole picks!

"Zydeco Sont Pas Salés" - Clifton Chenier

Considered the "King of Zydeco", Chenier invented the vest frottoir (the famous zydeco washboard vest) in 1946. Using the washboard and usually a push-button accordion, zydeco has a distinct sound and is Creole music from southern Louisiana and Texas. It was Chenier who toured and brought zydeco to the rest of the world.

"Paper in My Shoe" - Boozoo Chavis

Another zydeco great, Boozoo Chavis is credited with writing many of the zydeco standards. This particular track is the song that made him famous. While Clifton Chenier may be "considered" the King of Zydeco, Boozoo was officially crowned the King of Zydeco in New Orleans in the 1990s.

Cedric Watson Live

This is the artist from the Songlines' playlist that got me grooving to zydeco today. Unfortunately there don't seem to be very many descent videos of him up on YouTube. So, we'll have to settle with this one. But there is a great recording of "Cedric Zydeco" on the Songlines' playlist, so definitely go check that out. While he is an accordionist, vocalist, and songwriter, he is making a name for himself as a reviver of the old Creole fiddling styles of Canray Fontenot and Bebe Carrier. Lots of energy and fun to listen to, Watson is the future of zydeco.

Meet the Musicians: Nicki Maher

2011-03-19T18:56:00.000Z

In this new series, we get to hear from the musicians themselves. For the inaugural post in the series, I have interviewed London clarinetist, Nicki Maher.

Nicki Maher

Nicki was brought up on a musical diet of Newfoundland folk and Western classical music. She discovered the clarinet when she was eight. Having muddled through the complexities of Brahms and Poulenc, Nicki emerged triumphant having obtained her grade eight with honours, awarded by the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Since then she has explored the chirps and trills of klezmer clarinet and has delved into the excitement of the additive rhythms of the Balkans with David Bitelli at the University of Southampton. She has also attended the Jewish Music Institute’s (JMI) Klezfest for the last three years under the guidance of Merlin Shepherd, Christian Dawid and Frank London. In September 2009, she started her Masters in Music Performance at SOAS studying the intricacies of Turkish music. As part of this course, she learnt Turkish Romani klarnet style with Selim Sesler and Serkan Çağrı in İstanbul. She has been part of the SOAS klezmer ensemble (which she now co-directs), SOAS Rebetiko band, SOAS Iranian band and has returned to her roots playing the music of the British Isles and its diaspora with the SOAS ceilidh band and the Lime Quartet. She also leads her own band playing Turkish Romani music.

1. How long have you been performing and what inspired you to get into music?
Well, according to my mum I’ve been performing since I was two... she has recounted a certain situation to me numerous times in which I stood up on a table in a classy French restaurant and belted out several nursery rhymes at the top of my lungs, complete with a flannel on my head... and this was all directly before diving head first into the desert trolley...
As for the inspiration... I’m not sure. My parents have always been interested in music but neither of them are musicians.

2. What or who are your influences?
I have a very diverse set of influences. I grew up listening to the folk music of Newfoundland (where my dad is from) so I imagine that this could be where my folk-ward leaning comes from.

When I ‘seriously’ started learning music, I learnt classical clarinet and classical theory and harmony. When I got to university I rebelled against my past and decided to start learning jazz. I was lucky enough to meet David Bitelli, the jazz horn teacher at Southampton University, who then introduced me to Klezmer and Balkan music as well. Since then I haven’t looked back. I would say that my main clarinet playing influences are – jazz (Sidney Bechet, Benny Goodman, Johnny Dodds; Klezmer (Naftule Brandwein, Dave Tarras, Sammy Musiker, Merlin Shepherd, and Christian Dawid); Balkan (Miroslav Bušinovski, Tale Ognenovski, Ivo Papasov and Ferus Mustafov. Turkish: Mustafa Kandıralı, Selim Sesler and Serkan Çağrı).

3. What is your all-time favorite albums?
I have to say that I’m more of an individual track person than having favorite albums. If I had to pick, then I guess the best albums that I own and can think of right now would be:
Selim Sesler – The Road to Keşan
Ivo Papasov – Dance of the Falcon
La Bottine Souriante – Rock and Reel
The Beatles – Sgt Pepper or Magical Mystery Tour. Can’t decide.
Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here

This list is definitely not definitive or exhaustive.

4. What are you listening to right now?
An ezan on YouTube in makam Segah! Have a listen too if you like:

5. Have any upcoming gigs/shows we should know about?
Yes! With the SOAS klezmer ensemble on the 31st March at The Victoria (E8 3AS) in Dalston. And on the 1st April with Basso Remvasso at St. Ethelburgas (Bishopsgate/Liverpool st.) http://stethelburgas.org/civicrm/event/info?id=264&reset=1

http://www.myspace.com/nickimaher
You can hear Nicki with the SOAS Maqam Project here:

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2011-03-17T16:01:00.000Z

There are some really hot shows going on in London this weekend! Check them out:

March 17th Thursday 7:00pm: SOAS Radio Live @ Favela Chic (91 Great Eastern Street) £5 Following the success of the first event back in January, Soas Radio Live returns to Favela Chic's bohemian dance-floor, this time bringing to the stage not one but THREE live bands and THREE live sets from Soas Radio's very own DJs.
March 19th Saturday 8:00pm: Palatka Gypsy Band @ The Warehouse (13 Theed St, SE1 8ST) £10-15 The famous Palatka Gypsy band from Transylvania will be playing at the Warehouse, home of the London Festival Orchestra, on 19th March 2011.
March 20th Sunday 7:00pm: Erkan Ogur and Ismail Demircioglu + She'Koyokh @ Union Chapel (Compton Ave, Highbury Corner, London N1 2XD) £20 Truly magical Turkish traditional music in the beautiful Union Chapel from the legendary singer and multi-instrumentalist Erkan Ogur, widely regarded as a revolutionary musician who changed the Turkish music scene with his fascinating interpretations of traditional Anatolian songs.
March 20th Sunday 8:30pm: Palatka Gypsy Band @ Inn on the Green (3 Thorpe Close, W10 5XL) £10 As one of the very few remaining expressions of Palatka Music, the Palatka Gypsy Band can be considered the last avatar of a centuries-old tradition.

Palatka Gypsy Band @ The Warehouse on Sat and @ Inn on the Green on Sun

Can't make any of these? Check out the full calendar for more upcoming world music events in London

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-03-16T18:00:00.000Z

What are you listening to?

This Week's Picks (#35)

2011-03-14T23:57:00.000Z

It's St. Paddy's day soon and what better way to celebrate than some tunes straight from the land of the leprechauns. Enjoy!

"May Morning Dew" - The Chieftains

These guys are the veterens of the traditional Irish groove and no St. Paddy's day tribute would be complete without them. While they're famous for their upbeat jigs and reels, this has to be my favorite track by them. There's just something about the melody that just send chills down my spine. A mysterious aire, this is a beautiful song. That said, I think its time for something a little more festive...

"Eanair" - Lúnasa

I've featured this band before but I really do love them. While this song treads a thin line towards cheesiness, I think it just holds it off. Instead, you get a beautiful and energetic twist on traditional Irish music. This track is from their debut album, Lúnasa, released in 1998. While we're getting warmer, I think we can still get a little more festive...

"Johnny Jump Up" - Gaelic Storm

Now, this is more like it. A great song, about drinking. Gotta love stereotypes. Again this is another group I grew up with and while they too edge on cheesy, I love them. Especially this song. This track is from there 1998 debut album Gaelic Storm. With lyrics like "I fell to the ground and I couldn't get up, after drinking a pint of the Johnny Jump Up," you can't go wrong!

Now, what are you waiting for! Go sink a pint (or two, or three) of Guinuess and celebrate Éire!

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2011-03-10T19:44:00.000Z

Whew! I just updated the Nomad's Calendar and it looks like there's some great stuff going on! Here's what's happening this weekend:

*March 11th, Friday 7:00pm: Afro-Brazilian Percussion Magic @ SOAS Brunei Gallery ( Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square WC1H 0XG) FREE hrow aside preconceived musical prejudices, abandon all attempts to catalogue: a rich chemistry of cultural influences is at work when the Adriano Adewale Group gets together on stage. Rooted in the musical traditions of Nigeria, Angola and Brazil and infused with contemporary European classical and jazz styles, percussionist and composer Adriano Adewale’s music is a global fusion of musical influences.
March 12th Saturday 6:00pm: Karnatic Vocal: Sanjay Subrahmanyan @ The Bhavan (4a Castletown Road, W14 9HE) £10-25 Sanjay Subrahmanyam has performed at innumerable concerts across India and overseas, enthralling his audiences with his powerful and energetic voice.
March 12th Saturday 7:10pm: Songs of Love and Liberation from Iran @ SOAS Brunei Gallery ( Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square WC1H 0XG) £5-12 This is an academic concert, including vocal and instrumental music.

Can't make any of those concerts? Check out the Nomad's Calendar for other upcoming events that you shouldn't miss! Be sure to let me know if I've missed anything and I'll put it up on the calendar!

This Week's Picks (#34)

2011-03-07T19:39:00.000Z

I'm in a Brazilian mood today, so please enjoy this week's picks!

"Lero-Lero" - Luisa Maita

A contemporary artist from São Paulo, Luisa Maita is a perfect example of modern Brazilian music done well. Obviously rooted in bossa nova and samba, Maita throws in some pop influences for a relaxed sound. Best part, the label is offering a free download of this track. To download, visit: luisamaita.bandcamp.com/track/lero-lero-free-download

"A Namorada" - Carlinhos Brown

If you are going to talk about modern Brazilian music, you have to bring up Carlinhos Brown. This isn't a new discovery for me, as I came across this song a few years back as part of the album Brazil-The Greatest Songs Ever and loved it. But it does deserve to be a pick as it is just so much fun! Carlinhos is a tropicália artist, which is upbeat, catchy and delightfully different from the low-key samba and bossa nova.

"The Girl from Ipanema" - Astrud Gilberto & Stan Getz

Now that we've heard some modern Brazilian tunes, we have to dip into a the classics. You can't get more classic Brazilian bossa nova than Stan Getz and Astrud Gilberto. I love this track, but I think it's a bit of a shame that Astrud Gilberto looks so awkward when she sings.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-03-02T15:00:00.000Z

What are you listening to?

This Week's Picks (#33)

2011-02-28T20:13:00.000Z

This week's picks were inspired by the recent revolution in Libya. Please enjoy this tribute to Libyan musicians!

"Hely Meli" - Hamid el Shaeri

Hamid el Shaeri is Libyan, though he now resides in Egypt. He is credited to be the founder of Egyptian jeel music. Jeel developed in the 1970s as an alternative to popular music at the time and has been called "new wave".

"Lesh Beta" - Mohammed Hassan

While Mohammed Hassan is quoted to be one of Libya's most famous artists, it is impossible to find any information on him. So, I'm afraid you'll have to suffice just listening to the music. :)

"Soliel Soliel" - Ahmed Fakroun

I couldn't resist posting this track for the cheese-factor alone. Ahmed Fakroun is another of Libya's most famous musicians as he's quoted to be a pioneer of modern Arabic World Music. His influences include rai, Euro-pop and French art-rock.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-02-23T22:02:00.000Z

This week's suggestion comes from reader DJ Socrates...or rater sort of. He suggested "Fir bolg" by Kíla, but it does not seem to exist on YouTube. But here's another Kíla track!

Enjoy!!

"Glanfaidh Me" - Kíla

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.
Please visit our Reader Submission Details Page for more information on how to submit any material to Nomad's Playlist.

This Week's Picks (#32)

2011-02-21T20:29:00.001Z

Please enjoy this week's picks!

"Wuji" - Hanggai

The group Hanggai performs Mongolian folk music, combining it with other styles including punk rock. This track features Mongolian throat singing, for which the group has become famous. The track is from their 2008 album, Introducing Hanggai. They recently released a new album, He Who Travels Far late last year.

"Sama Sounounou" - Le Trio Joubran

Le Trio Joubran is a Palestinian ensemble of three brothers and oud players, who come from a generation of oud players. This track is from their 2007 album, Majaz. They are releasing a new album, AsFar in March and are performing in London around the time of their release on March 26th at Logan Hall.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-02-16T23:45:00.000Z

This Week's Picks (#31)

2011-02-14T23:55:00.002Z

I know it's been my recent habit to pick a theme for the "This Week's Picks" tracks. However, this week's theme is simply "awesome stuff I've heard this week." So I apologize if it seems a bit random, but these are still some great picks. Enjoy!

"Music for a Found Harmonium" - Penguin Cafe

As anyone who follows me on Twitter will already know, I've become obsessed with Penguin Cafe as of late. I attended their sold out concert at the Barbican on Wednesday and was blown away. They're music is beyond category, fusing jazz, folk, world, and classical elements. Penguin Cafe is the continuation of Simon Jaffes' original concept of the Penguin Cafe Orchesta by his son, Arthur. I'm actually disappointed there is not a better video of them on YouTube. This is an OK recording, but they are much better than this video gives them credit for. **Keep your eyes out for my review of Wednesday's concert to appear in the next issue of Songlines Magazine!**

"Rumba" - Indialucia

Indian flamenco...'nuff said. Ok, so I know there's a chance that this may sound a tad cheesy to some, but I think it's just so much fun! It's full of energy like flamenco, but without the seriousness of the genre. As a genre spawned from the confluence of various musical influences, flamenco works beautifully as a fusion setting. It could be that I'm bias as I LOVE flamenco music, but Indialucia pull off a really beautiful fusion.

"Turceasca" - Taraf de Haïdouks

I've known of this group for awhile so it might be cheating putting this under the theme of "awesome stuff I've discovered this week", but I have really been getting into them this week. They're a fun gypsy band from Romania, and if you need any other reason to like them, they're Johnny Depp's favorite gypsy band. There you go. They must be awesome!

Win the new Mercedes Peon CD!

2011-02-11T23:00:00.002Z

Nomad's Playlist is holding a contest. The winner will receive a free copy (UK shipping included) of Mercedes Peon's new album, SOS.

To enter the contest use your Twitter account to retweet:
Mercedes Peon 'SOS' @Nomadsplaylist #npcdcontest

The contest will close at 11:59pm Sunday February 13th, 2011 and the winner will be chosen at random and notified on February 14th.

**International music lovers are welcome to enter, but will be subject to £5.00 shipping charge.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-02-09T23:28:00.000Z

This week's suggestion comes from reader Sarah. Enjoy!

Aicha! - Tamikrest

Touareg blues, similar to Tinariwen, from Tamikrest's debut album.

This Week's Picks (#30)

2011-02-08T22:58:00.001Z

Before I go on to post the picks for this week, lets just pause and celebrate my 100th post! Whoo hoo!
Happy 100!

And now for this week's picks. Enjoy!

"Djon Maya" - Victor Démé

Démé inherited his music from his griot mother who gave him his outstanding voice. I really love his bluesy guitar and melancholy voice. From Burkina Faso, Démé has only recently released his internationally available albums and slowly gaining the fame he deserves.

"Mariama Kaba" - Boubacar Traoré

Apparently in a bluesy mood today, I've chosen another great African blues artist. I absolutely love this track. Boubacar is a fantastic Malian guitarist, whose unfortunate nickname "Kar Kar" means "one who dribbles too much". This track is from his first album, Mariama produced in France shortly after his wife died.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-02-02T22:54:00.001Z

This week's reader pick comes as a suggestion from Rob. Enjoy!

"Expensive Shit" - Fela Kuti

Embarrassingly, I've been caught out for never posting a Fela Kuti video. Well Rob, here you are.

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.
Please visit our Reader Submission Details Page for more information on how to submit any material to Nomad's Playlist.

This Week's Picks (#29)

2011-01-31T21:10:00.003Z

This week's picks are inspired by good ol' timey bluegrass. Enjoy!

"Bluegrass Breakdown" - Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys

Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass, is as ol' timey as it gets. Monroe started playing around with the sound that became bluegrass in the 1940's, characterizing it as "Scottish bagpipes and ole-time fiddle playing". He named it "Blue Grass" after his home state of Kentucky. It's just a shame that the Bluegrass Boys can't seem to enjoy themselves on stage.

"Crazy Train" - Iron Horse

What is more ol' timey than Ozzy Osbourne bluegrass-style?...Oh...wait. Ok, so it may not be 'ol' timey', but it kind of kicks butt. This is from the album Black and Bluegrass: The Bluegrass Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne. Iron Horse is known for their bluegrass covers, and they're quickly becoming my new favorite band ever. Bluegrass Metallica, Bluegrass Guns N Roses, Bluegrass Led Zepplin...and the list goes on. Um, AWESOME!

"Man of Constant Sorrow" - Dan Tyminski, Harley Allen, Pat Enright "Soggy Bottom Boys"

Ok, so the Soggy Bottom Boys are a fictitious band created for the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? and I'm sure pretty much everyone has heard this track before. But this version of the classic bluegrass tune, recorded by Dan Tyminski, Harley Allen, and Pat Enright is a Grammy winner for a reason- it's great! It's also said to be the closest version to the famous bluegrass artist, Ralph Stanley's distinct style of singing. Plus...who doesn't love seeing George Clooney all dirty and 'singing' bluegrass?

Album Review: Sigh of the Moor by Jadid Ensemble

2011-01-29T20:31:00.004Z

Album: Sigh of the Moor
Artist: Jadid Ensemble
Release Date: March 10, 2011
Genre/Region: Fusion, Middle-Eastern, Flamenco, North African

This is the outstanding debut album from the Manchester group, Jadid Ensemble. Skillfully blending flamenco and jazz with Arabic and Turkish sounds, the group produces a blissfully serene album.

The album features a range of instruments with Glenn Sharp, the driving force of Jadid Ensemble, on guitars, oud and saz, Paul Cheneour on flutes and neys, Olivia Moore on violin, Adam Warne on percussion, and Gavin Barras on double bass. Weaving their different sounds and styles together, this talented group takes an atmospheric journey through Southern Spain and North Africa.

With a dramatic opening, Sigh of the Moor begins with a haunting and distant call to prayer that is eventually enveloped by a sublime guitar. This track, “Llamar”, beautifully sets the tone for the rest of the album—evocative yet peaceful.

Despite the overall feeling of calm and tranquility, the album does have a few delightful tracks full of energy. The track “Vandal” conjures images of a North African street market, busy with activity. “Tango Arabe” is passionate and powerful, suddenly breaking into a rhythmic flamenco-inspired finish. “The Storyteller” again brings you back to the streets as if you had just stumbled upon a street performer who launches into a spirited story.

The finest track on the album is “Ilm”. The simple, ancient-sounding melodies weave delicately in and out of each other, slowing building intensity over a steady pulse.

The album lives up to its claim of “film score style production”, creating a musical story that travels through Spain and the Middle East with a clear beginning and end. While the album makes for undeniably beautiful listening, the music is not superficial and the listener has a definite sense of transformation at its conclusion, very much like a film.

I highly recommend this album. Jadid Ensemble has produced an outstanding debut and set the bar high for subsequent recordings, which I will be eagerly awaiting.

You can listen to “Ilm”, "Raag", "Vandal", and "Tango Arabe" from Jadid Ensemble’s Sigh of the Moor on Glenn Sharp’s myspace page: www.myspace.com/glennsharpworld.

Jadid Ensemble is currently participating in the World Music Network’s Battle of the Bands. Visit their page (www.worldmusic.net/battle/track/186/) to hear the track “Sigh of the Moor” and if you like what you hear, you can vote for them.

This Week's Picks (#28)

2011-01-24T19:16:00.000Z

I'm busy putting together a research proposal for study in Zanzibar, so bear with me. But, here are some picks inspired by the spice island. Enjoy!

Bi Kidude

The legendary singer of Zanzibar. No one knows how old she is, but she is still feisty!

Culture Musical Club

The Culture Musical Club is a group famous for it's taarab. Taarab is a genre of music from Zanzibar that mixes Arabic and African sounds.

Dhow Countries Music Academy

Here, performers at the Dhow Countries Music Academy play various kinds of dance including kidumbaki.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-01-19T13:00:00.000Z

This Week's Picks (#27)

2011-01-18T22:31:00.001Z

This week's picks are inspired by tango. Please enjoy!

"La Esquina" - Federico Aubele

Federico Aubele is an Argentinian singer-songwriter who is recognized for his fusion style, mixing bolero, tango, dub, hip-hop, and reggae. This track is from his 2007 album, Panamericana. Aubele is accompanied by the singer, Natalia Clavier. Aubele's music tends to be chilled, edging on pop-y, but interesting as long as he's sticking to tango inspired tracks.

"Sin Rumbo" - Otros Aires

Otros Aires are an electronic tango project that blend Argentinian roots and electronic beats. This track is from their album Vivo en Otros Aires. While "Sin Rumbo" is obviously influenced by tango, Otros Aires draw on many other traditions including milonga to create a sound much different than some of the other tango based groups.

"Santa Maria (Del Buen Ayre)" - Gotan Project

The Gotan Project, who I looked at backed in July, is one of the first bands to successfully combine the worlds of folk and electronic music. This track is from their 2001 album, La Revancha Del Tango. The Gotan Project discovered that tango melodies worked beautifully on top of house and dub beats, bursting onto the scene at the turn of the century with a fresh new sound.

Too much time...?

2011-01-13T14:00:00.000Z

Just for your viewing pleasure...
I happened across a video I felt was appropriate for this blog. It incorporates traditional instruments several countries and drum set...all played by one man. A man with too much time on his hands.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2011-01-12T18:00:00.000Z

Come on, you've heard enough from me, I want to know what you listen to!

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for the weekly "Reader's Picks" series.

How do I get my review posted?
Send the review you've written and a link to the track on YouTube to my email. Please include the name you would like me to use as the author of the review (it can be your full name, first name, or user name). I will post up to three tracks in a given week.

I have a great track I would like to share, but I don't want to write a review. Can I still share it?
Of course! Please send me an email with a link to the track on YouTube and I might include the track in our "This Week's Picks" series.

This Week's Picks (#26)

2011-01-10T23:17:00.000Z

Please enjoy this week's picks!

"Jiin Ma Jiin Ma" - Orchestra Baobab

This track is from the 2002 album Specialist in All Styles by Orchestra Baobab, a Senegalese Afro-Cuban band. The group formed in the 1970s and quickly won the hearts of music lovers. They broke up in the 1980s after being overshadowed by some of the other great bands of the time, but reformed in 2001. This particular performance is from Live 8 in Johannesburg, which was a series dedicated to ending poverty.

"Punjabi Wedding Song (Balle Balle)" - Red Baraat

Calling themselves 'dhol and brass', Bhangra funk, or Punjabi funk, Red Baraat has created a fresh, updated sound that has been compared to a cross between Bhangra and New Orleans jazz. The group fuses Bhangra rhythm and brass funk. Recognized as a band that can deliver a great performance in clubs, they have only just released their first album, Chaal Baby (2010) (an album I need to get my hands on!).

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2011-01-07T09:41:00.000Z

I am currently in the process of moving back to London and apologize for the lack of posts. Will be back to normal on Monday.

In the mean time, check out some of the gig's coming up this weekend:

January 7th Friday 7:00pm: Mazaika Duo @ Green Note (106 Parkway NW1 7AN) £10 An intoxicating blend of Russian Folk and Gypsy songs, Hot Club Jazz,Tango, Gypsy fiddle and Balkan beats. MAZAIKA duo consists of two highly talented, passionate and versatile musicians. Sarah Harrison is a violin virtuoso and improviser.Igor Outkine is a singer and a master accordion player who will perform on his amazing midi accordion which he proudly calls “The Chameleon Virtual Orchestra”.
January 8th, Saturday 7:30pm: Ethiopiaaa: Krar Collective, Dan-Kera Dance @ Rich Mix (35-47 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA) £6 Shake off your post-New Year blues – with another Christmas night out! Ethiopians celebrate Christmas on 7th January and Rich Mix brings a rocking Ethiopian party to Bethnal Green Road until late. Much talked about as one of the freshest bands on the London African scene, KRAR COLLECTIVE deliver a gritty, rootsy sound that gets everyone dancing.

Can't make it to either of those? Check out the whole calendar.

Top of the Charts

2011-01-02T00:18:00.000Z

Happy New Year! Here's to a wonderful 2011!

Here's a glimpse at the World Music charts that will begin the new year. (The charts are from the Official World Chart website).

#1. AFROCUBISM - AFROCUBISM (World Circut)

#2. RODRIGO Y GABRIELA - 11:11:00 (Ruby Works)

#3. CHEIKH LO - JAMM (World Circut)

#4. ALI FARKA TOURE & TOUMANI DIABATE - ALI FARKA TOURE & TOUMANI DIABATE (World Circut)

#5. AMADOU & MARIAM - WELCOME TO MALI (Because Music)

#6. AFRO CELT SOUND SYSTEM - CAPTURE (1995-2010) (Real World)

#7. RAVI SHANKAR & GEORGE HARRISON - COLLABORATION (Rhino)

#8. RODRIGO Y GABRIELA - LIVE IN JAPAN (Ruby Works)

#9. GEOFFREY GURRUMUL YUNUPINGU - GURRUMUL (Dramatico/Skinnyfish)

#10. SOUAD MASSI - O HOURIA (LIBERTY) (Wrasse)

I wish you all a wonderful new year!

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-12-30T02:41:00.000Z

This week's picks comes from Muhummad as a tribute to Teena Marie who recently passed away. Enjoy!

"Behind the Groove" - Teena Marie

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.
Please visit our Reader Submission Details Page for more information on how to submit any material to Nomad's Playlist.

This Week's Picks (#25)

2010-12-27T23:06:00.000Z

The next several series of This Week's Picks are inspired by an often overlooked important aspect of music: the visual. Music is almost always accompanied by costumes, dress, dance, makeup, and/or theatre. The visual can be as simple as a pair of shades on a blues singer or as elaborate as the grand performances of Japanese kabuki theatre.

Last week, we featured dance music. This week, our picks will focus on costume and dress. Please enjoy!

American Style Tribal Bellydance

While this could have been posted in last week's feature on dance, it fits perfectly in the costume/dress category. This is a recent form of dance, developed in California in the 1980s. It takes its inspiration from numerous dance and music styles including Middle Eastern, Central Asian, Spanish, Indian, and Balkan. The costumes aim to reflect the dance's diverse backgrounds. The dancers improvise in groups to music inspired by the same variety of cultures. They wear an elaborate collection of head-wear, jewelery and costuming representing these different cultures. The result is an entertaining and beautiful display of cultural harmony.

African Desert Blues

It is easy for a certain dress or style to become associated with a genre of music. Desert blues, for example, conjures images of light, flowing robes and howli head scarfs. While this may be the traditional Touareg style of dress, it becomes associated with the music the moment artists begin traveling and bringing their music to other cultures. Thus, groups like Tinariwen, rock out in full desert dress and a concert would not be the same without that accompanying visual.

AfroCubism

In other situations, the choice of dress may be a conscious decision. AfroCubism is a collaboration of musicians from Cuba and Mali. When seen in a live performance, like the above video, you can easily spot the Cuban musicians from the Malian musicians based on their choice of dress. In this case, the choice of dress is an reaffirmation of culture and background that highlights the collaboration between two different musical genres that are elegantly compatible.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-24T22:23:00.000Z

May you and your loved ones have a fantastic Christmas/Hanukkah/Solstice/Kwanza!

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-12-22T15:51:00.000Z

This week's suggestion comes from an anonymous reader. Please enjoy!

"Khalouni" - Souad Massi

Souad Massi is an Algerian singer/songwriter. This track is from her 2005 album, Mesk Elil.

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.
Please visit our Reader Submission Details Page for more information on how to submit any material to Nomad's Playlist.

This Week's Picks (#24)

2010-12-20T21:40:00.003Z

The next several series of This Week's Picks are inspired by an often overlooked important aspect of music: the visual. Music is almost always accompanied by costumes, dress, dance, makeup, and/or theatre. The visual can be as simple as a pair of shades on a blues singer or as elaborate as the grand performances of Japanese kabuki theatre.

Last week, we featured theatrical music. This week, our picks will focus on dance from around the world. Please enjoy!

Spanish Flamenco

I cannot help but start with one of my favorite dances. This is not only my some of my favorite music to listen to, but my favorite to watch in action. Flamenco is thought of as three separate parts- the song, the dance and the guitar. When they come together, you experience raw emotion in both the visual and aural senses. Originating in Southern Spain, it has become a cultural symbol of the entire country. The dance is known for it's emotional intensity, power of expression and proud stature.

Lezginka from the Caucasus

Having seen the Azerbaijani version of this dance last year, I have been enthralled ever since. This video is of the men's dance which is far more energetic and, frankly, more entertaining than the female counterpoint. The men spin, twirl and jump in athletic displays that are fun to watch. The women dance gracefully in elaborate costumes, appearing to float across the floor.

South African Gum Boot Dance

This dance is different in that the musical accompaniment comes from the dance itself. It is a dance performed by dancers wearing gum boots who rhythmically stomp, clap, and slap. The dance was created by gold mine workers in South Africa who were banned from speaking to each other. The dance was not only a means of communication, but a way to keep their spirits alive during the terrible years of the apartheid. It has since evolved into an art form.

Please keep in mind that there are many, many dances and I can only feature a choice few in my series. If I've missed something that you enjoy, please leave a comment below with links to any videos you can find for everyone to enjoy!

Remmy Ongala (1947-2010)*

2010-12-19T23:29:00.002Z

Sadly, on December 13th, the African music scene lost one of it's greats, Remmy Ongala. Ongala was a respected soukous (Congolese rumba) musician, who helped transform the Tanzanian music scene with the help of his band Orchestra Super Matimila.

Ongala had a passion for speaking out about racism and social injustice. He was often referred to as "The Doctor" for his reputation as a defender of the people. Born in Congo, he began playing in Tanzania in his thirties, writing songs that criticized elite society. However, as his music gained in popularity he was eventually granted Tanzanian citizenship.

Despite growing ill in recent years, he continued to write songs as concerned with social injustice as ever. One song, banned by Radio Tanzania, that urged men to wear condoms was featured on an AIDS awareness album, Spirit of Africa (2001).

Producing music that got a listener to both dance and think, Ongala had a talent that African music lovers will sorely miss.

An essential playlist in tribute to Ongala should include:

"No Money, No Life" (Mambo)

"Kifo" (Songs for the Poor Man)

"Karola" (Songs for the Poor Man)

*Sources:
Remmy Ongala: Tanzania music fans mourn 'the Doctor', BBC News
Remmy Ongala Dies, AllVoices
Remmy Ongala, Afropop Worldwide

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-12-15T15:11:00.002Z

This week's pick comes from Rafi. Please enjoy!

"Rut Sawant" - Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

The late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was a renowned Pakistani artist. He was an exceptionally gifted musician who was best known for singing Qawwali, a form of Sufi devotional music that celebrates the various spiritual traditions within Islam. It may sound cliché but it is hard to describe Nusrat without getting emotional. Nusrat’s voice was truly one of a kind, his vocals bellowed an array of mystical and ethereal sounds that captured his audience.

The following excerpt is from an article written by the late Jeff Buckley. Jeff was a phenomenal musician and was a loyal fan of Nusrat. Jeff Buckley captures perfectly how it feels when listening to Nusrat for the very first time.

The first time I heard the voice of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was in Harlem, 1990. My roommate and I stood there, blasting it in his room. We were all awash in the thick undulating tide of dark punjabi tabla rhythyms, spiked with synchronized handclaps booming from above and below in hard, perfect time.

I heard the clarion call of harmoniums dancing the antique melody around like giant, singing wooden spiders. Then all of a sudden, the rising of one, then ten voices hovering over the tonic like a flock of geese ascending into formation across the sky.

Then came the voice of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Part Buddha, part demon, part mad angel...his voice is velvet fire, simply incomparable. Nusrat's blending of classical improvisations to the art of Qawwali, combined with his out and out daredevil style and his sensitivity, outs him in a category all his own, above all others in his field.

His every enunciation went straight into me. I knew not one word of Urdu, and somehow it still hooked me into the story that he weaved with his wordless voice. I remember my senses fully froze in order to feel melody after melody crash upon each other in waves of improvisation; with each line being repeated by the men in the chorus, restated again by the main soloists, and then Nusrat setting the whole bloody thing alflame with his rapid-fire scatting, turning classical Indian Solfeggio (Sa, Re, Gha, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni) into a chaotic/manic birdsong. The phrase burst into a climax somewhere, with Nusrat's upper register painting a melody that made my heart long to fly. The piece went on for fifteen minutes. I ate my heart out. My roommate just looked at me knowingly, muttering, "Nusrat...Fa-teh...A-li...Khaaan," like he had just scored the wine of the century. I felt a rush of adrenaline in my chest, like I was on the edge of a cliff, wondering when I would jump and how well the ocean would catch me: two questions that would never be answered until I experienced the first leap.

(Reviewed by Rafi)

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.
Please visit our Reader Submission Details Page for more information on how to submit any material to Nomad's Playlist.

This Week's Picks (#23)

2010-12-13T21:14:00.004Z

The next several series of This Week's Picks are inspired by an often overlooked important aspect of music: the visual. Music is almost always accompanied by costumes, dress, dance, makeup, and/or theatre. The visual can be as simple as a pair of shades on a blues singer or as elaborate as the grand performances of Japanese kabuki theatre.

This week, our picks will focus on the theatrical side of music from around the world. Please enjoy!

Japanese Kabuki

Kabuki is an elaborate Japanese performance form. The kanji characters that make up the word "kabuki" mean "sing", "dance", and "skill". It originated in the 1600s and characters were played by both women and men. Now, known as yaro kabuki it is only performed by men. There are three categories of kabuki theatre: historical, domestic, and dance. Today, kabuki is the most popular traditional Japanese dance style.

Indonesian Wayang Kulit

Wayang kulit refers to the most famous of Indonesian wayang (Indonesian theatre), the shadow puppets. The puppets are made of leather and their articulated limbs are maneuvered by sticks. The performances are accompanied by gamelan orchestras in Java and gender wayang ensembles in Bali. The stories are usually taken from Ramayana, Mahabharata or the Serat Menak.

Indian Bharata Natyam Dance

Bharata Natyam is a traditional dance accompanied by classical music (light instrumentation and a voice). The dance is highly technical and includes detailed neck, head, eye, feet and hand movements that help tell a story. The more famous of these gestures are the mudras, or spiritually symbolic gestures, generally involving the hands. Generally, a woman dances solo and demonstrates both feminine and masculine aspects of movement.

This Week's Picks (#22)

2010-12-06T05:08:00.000Z

While making my way across the the American SouthWest on an epic car journey, it feels appropriate for NP to play a tribute to the slowly approaching Mexican border. Please enjoy this week's pick!

"Cumbia Campanera" - Celso Pina

Pina is a well known Mexican singer and accordionist. This track is from his 2003 album El Canto De Un Rebelde Para Un Rebelde. Pina is known for his cumbia music, though this release features many other styles in a left-leaning, politically-charged album. Cumbia is a Latin American style originating in Colombia that has found wide-spread popularity, including in Mexico.

This Week's Picks (#21)

2010-11-30T02:42:00.000Z

Please enjoy this week's picks.

"A Night Like This" - Caro Emerald

This track is from Dutch jazz singer Caro Emerald's debut album Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor released in 2009. She may be new on the scene, but she creates a hip twist on a throwback jazz and swing sound.

"Grand Sud" - Eugenio Bennato

Eugenio Bennato is an Italian artist who specialises in tarantella, folk music of Southern Italy. Tarantella is one of the most recognizable folk styles of Italy.

This Week's Picks (#20)

2010-11-23T00:37:00.000Z

Things are a little crazy as I pack and prepare for my trip back to the States, so this week's post is abbreviated. However, I hope you enjoy and please send in your picks for Wednesday's Reader Picks!

"Sweet Home Chicago" - Robert Johnson

Ok, so I'm not going home to Chicago, but rather than criticize me you should be thanking me for not choosing Christmas music (which I have already pulled out). As I pack my bags for a holiday season at home, I do enjoy listening to this track. I'm not the only one craving my old home in the States.

Madrid!

2010-11-18T14:12:00.000Z

First, I should apologize for missing both the "This Week's Picks" and "Wednesday Reader Picks" this week, but I was in Madrid....can you blame me?

I had a wonderful time exploring the beautiful Spanish city and consuming more tapas and good Spanish wine then I would like to admit. On Monday night, I went to the jazz club, Cafe Central to enjoy a show that was part of the 2010 Madrid Jazz Festival. In return for missing the past few days' posts, here's a review of that gig:

Moisés P. Sánchez Quartet at Café Central in Madrid Monday 15th November 2010 Review

Patrons lit up cigarettes and chatted calmly amongst themselves as a drummer tested his drum kit on stage. It had all makings of a cool jazz evening. The Moisés P. Sánchez Quartet was set to perform as part of the 2010 Madrid Jazz Festival at the smaller, more “authentic” Café Central jazz club. The quartet started the evening with an energetic chart that was experimental but palatable. The quartet excelled at the showy intensity of most of their pieces, which risked becoming predictable if it weren’t for a few moments of brilliant melody and quiet reserve. The pianist, Moisés P. Sánchez, showed off throughout the night with his fast fingers and extended techniques. The quartet put on a good show that thrilled the audience and that proved to be a good addition to the Madrid Jazz Festival.

Gregory Isaacs (1951-2010)

2010-11-10T21:23:00.001Z

On October 25th, Jamaican reggae singer Gregory Isaacs lost his battle with lung cancer. Isaacs led a long career singing smooth reggae, starting to record in his teens. Developing a style that was smooth and romantic, Isaacs distinguished himself as a top reggae artist. A drug addiction threaten to end his career early until his 2008 album Brand New Me proved that he was still capable of producing a top quality album. His latest album Isaacs Meets Isaac, with Zimbabwean reggae singer King Isaac, was released while he was still living.

A suggested playlist in tribute to Isaacs long and successful career includes:

“Night Nurse”

“Let’s Dance”

“Soon Forward”

“I Will Return”

“Over and Over Again”

Ana Moura's London Debut

2010-11-09T16:48:00.002Z

The Portuguese fado singer, Ana Moura, finally made her London debut on Thursday at Islington’s Union Chapel. Riding on the success of her most recent album, Leva-me Aos Fados (2009), she attracted an enthusiastic audience.

While Moura’s opening act, Pura Fé, was disappointing, Ana was a true star. Moura and her band were greeted throughout the night to thunderous applause and adoration by the audience. Her strong deep voice often left the audience breathless. The highlight of the night for this reviewer was Moura’s rendition of the Rolling Stones’ “No Expectations”. Moura’s performance of the classic left me with tears in my eyes. Moura also performed a show-stopper when she switched off the amplification and sang acoustically as if she was in a traditional fado house.

Moura was accompanied by a band of acoustic guitar, bass, and the talented Bernardo Couto on Portuguese guitarra. While Moura stole the show with her sparkling dresses and powerful voice, Couto’s virtuosity was noticed and appreciated by the audience.

Moura’s London debut was a definite success. She has left her adoring London fans anxiously awaiting her return.

"Os Buzios"

"No Expectations"

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2010-11-06T08:18:00.001Z

Check out some of the great gigs coming up tonight and tomorrow.

*November 6th, Saturday 9:00pm: Alejandro Toledo and the Magic Tombolinos @ Hootananny Brixton (95 Effra Rd Brixton SW1 1DF) FREE ALEJANDRO TOLEDO AND THE MAGIC TOMBOLINOS, Hoots favs, recently showcased on C4, 'seduced by an exotic sway of melodies..a frenzy of beats and riffs which left us unabel to sit still, gypsy klezmer with shades of Middle Eastern mystery interspersed with vibrant African and Latin, the mix was intoxicating,' Songlines
November 7th, Sunday, 6:00pm: Raki and Rebetiko with Cigdem Aslan @ Ottoman Palace (14-16 Camden High Street NW1 0JH) £8-10 An evening of Turkish and Greek song, led by talented singer Cigdem Aslan, in the opulent surroundings of Camden's Ottoman Palace.The evening wil recreate the mood of a typical 'Cafe Aman' or 'Meyhane' with plenty of food on the table and drink flowing freely!
*November 7th, Sunday 7:00pm: El Mahico @ Hootananny Brixton (95 Effra Rd Brixton SW1 1DF) FREE Rootmaster presents EL MAHICO Hip Hop and Funk with Flamenco guitars and Latin flavour: "Flamenco and rock have been fused before....But Leicester's El Mahico venture into entirely new territory, adding hip-hop and political punch and the musical mix works surprisingly well."

Also, watch this space for a review of fado singer Anan Moura's London debut.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-11-03T20:32:00.000Z

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? Send in your review of a track for our weekly "Reader's Picks" series. Here, we want to know what you listen to.

How do I get my review posted?
Send the review you've written and a link to the track on YouTube to nomadsplaylist@hotmail.com. Please include the name you would like us to use as the author of the review (it can be your full name, first name, or user name). We will post up to three tracks in a given week.

I have a great track I would like to share, but I don't want to write a review. Can I still share it?
Of course! Please send us an email with a link to the track on YouTube and we might include the track in our "This Week's Picks" series.

I emailed a review and it did not show up in this week's series. Should I resend it?
No. We keep all the reviews we receive and if your review didn't make the cut for this week's series, we will keep it to possibly appear in another series. However, we have the right to mediate the content on this blog. If we feel your review does not belong on this blog, either for inappropriate content or an inappropriate piece, we will not post it.

This Week's Picks (#19)

2010-11-01T15:17:00.000Z

Please enjoy this week's picks!

"Yegelle Tezeta" Mulatu Astatke

I have recently fallen in love with this track. It was made famous a few years ago by being featured in the movie Broken Flowers. Astatke is the father of Ethio-Jazz and his most recent album Mulatu Steps Ahead has received great reviews. This track is mellow and, recorded in 1970s, stands the test of time.

"Batarsite" Danyel Waro

Waro is this year's winner of the WOMEX 10 Award for Artists from this weekend's festival. He is a musician and activist from Reunion Island. The genre is called maloya which mixes music from Africa, Madagascar and India.

This Week's Picks (#18)

2010-10-25T22:14:00.000+01:00

For this week's picks, we're going retro! These tracks are classics that have no contemporary equal. Please enjoy!

"Independance Cha Cha" - African Jazz

This immortal track was released by African Jazz in 1960 after Congo won its independence. The track reflects the overall good feeling and happiness of a people still basking in the glow of recently won independence. African Jazz was Congo's first full-time performing rumba band setting the tone for the Congolese rumba phenomenon that would take over a continent for the next three decades.

"Enta Omri" - Umm Kulthum

Recognized as one of the Arab world's most famous singers to this day, Umm Kulthum is undoubtedly a classic.Kulthum is an Egyptian singer and actress who was known for her powerful, emotional voice. She could send an entire audience into a musical ecstasy and keep them hanging on every note. This track is one of her most famous songs.

"Rag Charukeshi" - Ravi Shankar

You cannot speak of "World Music Greats" without mentioning Ravi Shankar. Shankar is famous for bringing the sounds of India to America and for his involvement with The Beatles and George Harrison. He is considered to be the best sitar performer of the 20th century.

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2010-10-21T22:15:00.000+01:00

Be sure not to miss some of these great shows this weekend!

*October 22nd, Friday 7:00pm: Llego La Cumbia!: Pollito Boogaloo @ SOAS Brunei Gallery ( Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square WC1H 0XG) FREE Translating as ‘little dancing chicken’ the Pollito Boogaloo boys deliver raw Afro-Colombian roots music drawing from classic 60s Cumbia, Vallenato and Puya and mixing in a little dub and some Haitian voodoo! Fronted by charismatic Colombian vocalist Rafael Berrio they are one of Brighton’s hottest Latino outfits regularly firing up all-nighters in some of the south coast’s smokiest basements and recently played a storming London debut at Arriba La Cumbia.
October 22nd, Friday 7:00pm: Diabel Cissokho and Ramon Goose @ The Green Note (106 Parkway NW1 7AN) £10 Senegalese musician Diabel Cissokho is part of a griot family of musicians with a rich musical heritage. He grew up in Dakar, and started playing the kora at the age of 9. Kora player for Baba Maal for close to three years, he has supported and played with numerous artists, including Nuru Kane, Abdou Diop, Kandia Kouyate and Mama Draba - as well as performing alongside Femi Kuti, Cheikh Lo and Manu Dibango.
October 22nd, Friday 7:30pm: Celebration of Life @ Royal Festival Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £10-20 The mighty Celebration of Life Concert returns with reggae veterans Aswad. After two decades on the music scene and fifteen albums under their belts, 'The Lions of Ladbroke Grove' remain one of the country's best-loved reggae bands, mixing musical genres, from pop and reggae to lovers rock and urban roots.
*October 24th, Sunday 7:00pm: Krar Collective @ Hootananny Brixton (95 Effra Rd Brixton SW1 1DF) FREE Rootmaster in association with Movimientos presents KRAR COLLECTIVE: other-worldy Ethiopian modes and hypnotic rhythms driven by 6-stringed krar harp

Diabel Cissokho and Ramon Goose @ The Green Note, Friday

Aswad @ Royal Festival Hall, Friday

This Week's Picks (#17)

2010-10-18T22:18:00.002+01:00

The human voice is one of the most amazing instruments we have available. Cultures from around the world have capitalized on its power and range of capabilities, which is the inspiration for this week's picks. Please enjoy!

"Illunikavi" by Tanya Tagaq

This is a new find for me this week. Tanya Tagaq is a Canadian Inuit throat singer. Innuit throat singing is usually sung by two women, but she has created a new form of solo singing. While her movements are quite distracting, she produces some amazing sounds that are fun to listen to.

Live Performance by Huun Huur Tu

Huun Huur Tu is from the republic of Tuva in Russia, famous for it's distinct throat singing (or overtone singing). The style requires singing several (2-4) notes at the same time, and this particular style is the sygyt, or whistling" throat singing.

Elmeddin Ibrahimov

Azeri mugam is famous for it's complicated and impressive glottal sounds performed by the singer. This musician, Elmeddin Ibrahimov may be young, but he has obvious talent. It is unfortunate that this audio and visual do not match up, but Ibrahimov's voice redeems the video.

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2010-10-15T15:54:00.000+01:00

Keep your weekend free for the great gigs coming up!

October 15th, Friday 7:00pm: Jaljala @ The Green Note (106 Parkway NW1 7AN) £10 Arabic Rhythms, Eastern European Harmonies, Haunting Melodies, Beautiful Voices. Jaljala is an innovative collaboration between musicians of different nationalities and faiths, from the Middle East, North Africa and Europe.
October 16th, Saturday 8:00pm: Amit Chaudhuri @ Rich Mix (35-47 Bethnal Green Road E1 6LA) £8-£11 Amit Chaudhuri presents his unique mix of raga, jazz, rock, blues, techno and disco – "one of the most original and exciting sounds in contemporary music today", say critics. The Amit Chaudhuri Band will be playing material both from the acclaimed first CD This Is Not Fusion and the new album, Found Music, whose repertoire, as with the first album, emerges from a rich variety of sources and includes improvisational pieces, reworkings of classics, and songs about the globalised world we live in.
*October 17th, Sunday 7:00pm: Explosive Nzakomba @ Hootananny Brixton (95 Effra Rd Brixton SW1 1DF) FREE Rootmaster in association with Movimientos presents EXPLOSIVE NZAKOMBA: Congolese and Angolan Soukous and Zouk rumbas, Calypso and Reggae
October 17th, Sunday 7:45pm: Music for the Mind and Soul: Carnatic Chills @ Purcell Room (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £12 In an attempt to push the boundaries of Indian classical music a little bit further, Krishnan, Srinivasan and Purushotham come together to create a unique sound fusing three instruments rarely heard together - piano, violin and kanjira.

Amit Chaudhuri (Saturday @ Rich Mix)

Lalgudi GJR Krishnan (Sunday @ Southbank Centre)

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-10-13T22:08:00.001+01:00

This week's reader pick comes from Rafi. Please enjoy and send in your pick(s) for next week!

"Mehangai Dayan" from the movie Peepli Live

This lively track is a cheeky song about the rising of prices. The movie, Peepli Live, is a 2010 Indian comedy about "farmer suicides."

Have a great track you'd like to submit for next week? Click here for info on submitting material to Nomad's Playlist.

This Week's Picks (#16)

2010-10-04T06:34:00.000+01:00

I hope the following week's tracks will make up for the lack of posts this week. :) Please enjoy!

"Autorail" by Orchestra Baobab

Orchestra Baobab are a Senegalese Afro-Cuban band that formed in the seventies and epitimizes the sound of the genre. This track is from their 1993 album, Bamba, which features recordings from the 1980s. The band famously mixes Cuban rhythms with Wolof and Mandinka traditions from West Africa creating the smooth sounds you hear in the video.

"Walodhani No Mazaha (Those Who Thought it was a Joke)" by Mohamd Ilyas

Moving closer to my own research insterests, here's a piece from the spice island of Zanzibar. Mohamad Ilyas is taarab musician. Taarab is Zanzibar's biggest musical export, and is a genre of mixed styles and shows Arabic influences. While I spent time in Zanzibar studying other genres of music, it was impossible to avoid this beautiful music. It is easy to understand why so many people love taarab.

"Mast Qalandar" by Faiz Ali Faiz and Titi Robin

Pakistani qawwali singer Faiz Ali Faiz and French guitarist Titi Robin join forces in this album to create an inspiring fusion. This track is from the recently released album Jaadu (Magic). This track is fun and moving. The qawwali singers add an undeniable force to Titi's music and the creative sounds that come out of this partnership are simply wonderful.

This Week's Picks (#15)

2010-09-27T19:55:00.001+01:00

For this week, we're keeping to an "Asian" theme. I don't feature much from the Middle East or East Asia often so please enjoy this week's picks!

"Kidda" by Natasha Atlas

Natasha Atlas is a Belgian singer known for her fusions using largely Arabic genres. Some of her music features hip-hop, drum and bass, and reggae. This track is a beautiful example of this fusion.

"Yi Zu Wu Qu" by Lingling Yu

I first heard this Chinese instrument, the pipa, this week played by a friend and thought it had the most amazing sound. Lingling Yu is a virtuoso on the pipa and is internationally known. She has recently released a new album, Xu Lai and I highly recommend picking it up.

"Rast Taqsim" by Naseer Shamma

Naseer Shamma is an Iraqi musician who follows the Baghdadi School of oud playing. He is the only musician to construct the eight string oud following 9th century texts by the music theorist, al-Farabi.

Searching for the next fix...

2010-09-23T08:30:00.006+01:00

Do you love Nomad's Playlist as much as I do? Do you find yourself checking the blog every hour, just in case I've posted the next entry? Do you wish that Nomad's Playlist was a person so that you could marry it and make sweet, sweet (and yet, legitimate) love to it?

In that case, you'll love to hear that you can get your Nomad's Playlist fix on more than one media!

Come follow NP on Twitter and stay up to date on concerts, ramblings, and daily playlist picks.

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Most importantly, don't forget to subscribe to the blog!!!

Finally, pleeeeeaaasse submit your material! I'm SICK of hearing what I like, and more interested in hearing what's on YOUR playlist!

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-09-22T18:49:00.002+01:00

Have you recently heard a great track that you would like to share? We love to hear about what our readers are listening to, and if you have a great track to share, send us an email with your review for our weekly "Wednesday's Reader Picks." Here, we want to know what you listen to.

Don't forget to include a YouTube or (similar video/audio link) with your submission, so that our other readers can enjoy the music too!
We generally keep our reviews less than 100 words— short and sweet and all about the music. If you really love the track and feel inclined to write more, please feel free to do so!
Please avoid swearing. We love the fact that you are passionate about the music, but try to keep it clean.
If you submitted a track review and it did not appear in the next "Wednesday's Reader Picks" series, please do not resubmit it. We are restricted to the number of readers picks we can post each week and will hold on to yours for another week.

Click Here for more details on submitting material to Nomad's Playlist.

Something Different

2010-09-20T22:43:00.001+01:00

I'm finally finished with my masters dissertation! I know my blog has suffered as of late due to the last minute deadline craze, but it's all over. I thought that rather than post another "This Week's Picks", I should do something completely different. (This could also be because I'm lazy and this requires less work than a This Week's Picks entry.)

I thought I'd post my dissertation abstract, just in case anyone is interested in the topic. If you would like to read the dissertation, please send me an email and I'd be happy for forward you a copy. Please enjoy!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sound Systems and Spirits: Music and Spirit Possession in Zanzibar

This paper is the result of preliminary field research on music and spirit possession in Stone Town, Zanzibar. The ceremonies I attended during my research revealed concepts of perception, the sacred, modernity, and identity existent within the phenomenon of spirit possession. I offer a critical review of the literature concerning spirit possession on the Swahili coast and music in spirit possession, demonstrating their ineffectiveness in discussing the concepts I encountered. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the literature and methodologies, this paper aims at developing a methodology suitable for further research of music and spirit possession in Zanzibar. The new methodology presented here provides further research with the means of investigating the sensitivity of the sacred, music technology, and musical geography. Offering a new approach, this paper then poses questions the new methodology should investigate.

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-09-15T09:25:00.000+01:00

Today's reader pick comes from Julia. Enjoy!

"Number 1 Bus" by Nuru Kane

I have to admit that I have also been a bit obbessed with this song recently as well. It's so catchy! Kane is a Senegalese songwriter who plays guitar and guimbri, a Moroccan three-stringed lute.

Nomad's Calendar: This Weekend

2010-09-09T16:06:00.000+01:00

Prepare yourself for a crazy weekend! There are more concerts coming up than you'll know what to do with. If you don't make it to at least one...shame on you. :)

*September 10th, Friday 5:00pm: DJ Edu Radio 1 Extra@ The Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) FREE A new DJ on the airwaves, DJ Edu of Radio 1 Extra brings his DestiNation Africa to a live audience with a mix of the hottest underground sounds out of Africa - from hip-hop and RnB to dancehall, garage and D&B.
September 10th, Friday 6:00pm: La Paranza Del Geco @ Inn on the Green (3-5 Thorpe Close Ladbrok Grove W10 5XL) £6-8 They played an AMAZING show in May and this time they are back in London with 10 FABULOUS FEMALE DANCERS all the way from Italy and ready to inspire you with their incredible music and moves. Pizzica and Tarantella are traditional Italian music and dance. These days they are very popular again with big festivals all over southern Italy. The most famous is La Notte de la Taranta. Experience the amazing energy for yourself.
*September 10th, Friday 6:00pm: Amira Khier @ The Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) FREE Sudanese singer Amira Kheir creates something new with a fusion of jazz styles and East African melodies. (Book tickets online)
September 10th, Friday 8:30pm: MC Solaar @ Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £20/£10 One of the greatest names in modern French music, MC Solaar arrives with his distinctive mix of powerful lyrics and inventive rhymes that have taken him from the French underground to international acclaim. MC Solaar is an intensely charismatic performer whose thrilling live show is dominated by his signature smooth flow and linguistic fluidity, backed by throbbing funky beats that mix traditional African rhythms with urban techno. MC Solaar breaks the rules again with this freestyle touchdown, where he is joined by vocalists and a DJ to create an extravagant live show.
*September 10th, Friday 10:30pm: Sarah Ndagire @ The Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) FREE Uganda 's diva Sarah Ndagire has for a long time been a famous voice on several radio stations in Uganda. She makes her London debut, introduced by DJ Edu. (Book tickets online)
September 11th, Saturday 3:00pm: Alemu Aga @ Purcell Room (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £15/7.50 The Ethiopian King David's harp master Alemu Aga brings his spiritual and meditative songs to the festival for the first time. Alemu Aga plays an ancient instrument with ten strings called a beganna, a rare musical instrument of that has survived for nearly 6,000 years and is considered by Ethiopians to be the harp of King David of Israel. This is magical roots music of the ancient world and the closest we will get to hearing music referred to in the Bible.
September 11th, Saturday 6:00pm: Rafiki Jazz @ Purcell Room (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £15/7.50 World music's hottest big band brings their exciting mix of global rhythms to the big smoke. Featuring the combined talent of musicians from Zanzibar, Mauritius, Senegal, Colombia, Gambia, Zimbabwe, Brazil and the UK, who effortlessly blend to create big, vibrant, dancing sounds for today's multicultural world. The result is music of astounding power.
September 11th, Saturday 8:00pm: Asheber and the Afrikan Revolution @ Rich Mix (35-47 Bethnal Green Rd E1 6LA) £5 adv/£7 door Brand new super group Asheber and The Afrikan Revolution are taking London by storm. Led by multi-talented musician and educator Niles ‘Asheber’ Hailstones and featuring many of the most innovative grassroots musicians in the UK, they bring to the stage a seamless mixture of continent-wide Afrikan musical styles with elements of Reggae, Jazz, Soul, Blues, Hip-Hop, Funk and Spoken Word from the Diaspora. They are joined by DJ Duke Etienne.
September 11th, Saturday 8:30pm: The Master Drummers of Africa @ Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £20/10 The world's greatest drum orchestra in full flow is one of the most thrilling and unforgettable spectacles in world music today. The Master Drummers of Africa features ten drummers from ten African nations and draws from 5000 years of tribal rhythms to create ecstatic and freewheeling music straight from the heart of African cultures in a dynamic stage show. They bring us their new show Lighting and Thunder in their first London concert in five years. The Lighting and Thunder suite draws from the rhythms of over 300 tribes of Africa . Using over 100 ethnic drums, the orchestra creates uplifting and infectious rhythms that are mysterious, spiritual, celebratory and utterly compelling.
September 12th, Sunday 1:00pm: Khyam Allami and Nicoletta Demetriou @ The Green Note (106 Parkway NW1 7AN) £10 An exciting and exclusive series of collaborations by London based Iraqi ‘Ūd player Khyam Allami focusing on music from the Middle East, the Mediterranean and elsewhere. After a hectic year of travels and major performances at WOMAD and the Royal Albert Hall as part of the Proms, Khyam will kick off this series of collaborations with a set of solo ‘Ūd followed by a set with Cypriot singer Nicoletta Demetriou. Following their beautiful session for BBC R3's World Routes earlier this year, this is their first proper live performance. They will also be appearing live on BBC London 94.9 (Radio) on Saturday 11 Sep with DJ Ritu between 8 - 10pm.
September 12th, Sunday 7:00pm: Kristi Stassinopoulou and Stathis Kalyviotis @ The Green Note (106 Parkway NW1 7AN) £10 Kristi Stassinopoulou in singing and story telling, on ac. guitar, Indian harmonium, frame drums and small percussions and Stathis Kalyviotis on laouto, electronic looper, electric guitar, groove sampler and baglamas create a soundscape ranging from purely acoustic to purely electronic, visiting all the in-betweens, with arrangements of Greek traditional folk songs and creations from their own albums.
*September 12th, Sunday 2:00pm: 4Seasons Band and Temitope Ajayi@ The Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) FREE Gospel jazz funk group 4Seasons Band joins forces with new Afro soul vocal discovery Temitope Ajayi to play music from their debut CD, Sound of Light.
*September 12th, Sunday 4:00pm: Sona Jobarteh@ The Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) FREE Sensational new kora player Sona Jobarteh brings freshness to the sound of the kora with modern music.
*September 12th, Sunday 6:00pm: Mauricio Velasierra Quintet @ Rich Mix Bar (35-47 Bethnal Green Rd E1 6LA) FREE Velasierra is a pioneering player of traditional Andean flutes. Reinventing the kena Flute as a fully chromatic instrument, has allowed him to develop a truly original musical language. With influences ranging from African music to jazz, his compositions are a rich mixture of largely unexplored Andean rhythms combined with contemporary melodies and harmonies.
*September 12th, Sunday 6:00pm: Laye Sow @ The Front Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) FREE Singer and guitarist Laye Sow is one of the most exciting new musicians from West Africa, who is not afraid to mix mbalax and hi-life with funk, soul and hip-hop.
*September 12th, Sunday 7:00pm: Boujemaa Boujoul @ Hootananny Brixton (95 Effra Rd Brixton SW1 1DF) FREE Rootmaster presents BOUJEMAA BOUJOUL: Master musician of the Gnawa tradition Boujemaa Bouboul hails from the ancient southern Moroccan town of Tarroudant. Gnawa is the music of slavery and tells of their history. The Gnawa are the descendants of Sudanese slaves who were imported into Morocco around the 12th century by Arab traders to help build up the Arab empire. Gnawa mystical brotherhoods exist to pass on this history. It is also the music of trance and healing and the Gnawi use their powers to cure sickness and exorcise bad spirits.
September 12th, Sunday 8:30pm: London Community Gospel Choir@ Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre Belvedere Road SE1 8XX) £20/10 For years the mighty London Community Gospel Choir, founded by the legendary Bazil Meade, has produced some of the finest gospel singers in the country, as well as lending their heavenly voices in live shows and recordings from Sir Paul McCartney to Elton John, George Michael and Mariah Carey. With some of the finest singers in London raising the roof and a funky band providing the pulse, the choir performs a show to lift your spirits and soothe your soul.

Are we missing a concert happening this weekend? Let us know and we'll correct our mistake asap!

Wednesday's Reader Picks

2010-09-07T13:37:00.001+01:00

Today's recommendation comes from our reader, Muhummad. Please enjoy!

"Candela" by Buena Vista Social Club

I know, I'm surprised too! I can't believe we haven't featured these guys yet. This all-time favorite Cuban band is internationally famous, and for good reason! Formed in the 1990s, the group named after a members dance and music club in Havana have found their success by playing Cuban and Latin American grooves.

Do you have a track you'd like to post for our "Wednesday's Reader Pick" series? We'd love to hear it! Click here for more information on submitting material to NP.

This Week's Picks (#14): My Favorites (continued)

2010-09-06T08:32:00.001+01:00

Last week, I realized I had not yet featured some of my all time favorite music. This week I'm showcasing a few more of my all-time favorite tracks. Please enjoy!

"La Bush Resistance" by Balkan Beat Box

I know I've already featured these guys in my very first "This Week's Picks" but I just love these guys so much. This track, from their self-titled album, is not only a great one for their ability to update Balkan sounds, but for the lyrics. "Bring the dance and leave the guns." It's a great philosophy.

"Ja Fun Mi" by King Sunny Ade

I blame my obsession with world music on this man. When I was seven I came across his album, E Dide, and asked my mom to buy it. I got it and could not stop listening to it. How many seven year olds jam out to Nigerian pop music? While I couldn't find E Dide on YouTube, here's another great track from a great artist.

"Tabla Toy" by Beats Antique

Picking just one song from this trio was difficult. Like most of the other artists feature this week and last, I love just about every song they've ever made. One of the trio is a dancer, dancing during their live shows, therefore, every song has a great beat or deliciously slow melody to snake along to. While this video does not feature any dancing, I highly recommend checking out some other videos that do, like this one.