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Baker's Dozen

Ancient Rhythms, Global Rhythms: Pete Wareham's Favourite Records
Adam Quarshie , April 1st, 2020 09:28

Via his ensemble Melt Yourself Down, saxophonist Pete Wareham reimagines the rhythms and melodies of Nubia. Adam Quarshie caught up with him to discuss some of his influences, from the music of Egypt and Sudan to the music of East London.

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Sharhabeel Ahmed – 'Argos Farfish'
The other thing I should mention is that I had these two books called the Rough Guide to World Music, which are two giant volumes. I was obsessed with those for a long time. At the time, you had to go and buy a load of CDs, you couldn't just go on Spotify and check it out. It was a bit of an investment. A lot of those countries have got these dudes who, in the 50s, suddenly heard James Brown, or something, and went: shit, what we're doing sounds really old fashioned. We need horns, and Hammond organs, and guitars. It happened all over Africa.

There's not an awful lot to say about this song apart from that it really blends a lot of worlds for me. It blends the guitar, with the world music thing, and with the saxophone as well and that's why I think I love that song so much. It's only that one song, I can't find anything else by that guy. Whenever you play that track it's always going to pick everyone up. It's got such an incredible energy.