Record label Ghostly International have revealed their latest tech release, a modified version of the Kalimba, also known as an African thumb piano.
The instrument was designed by the label in collaboration with Brooklyn-based designers Brandnewnoise, run by Richard Upchurch, whose ‘DIY spirit’ inspired the label to reach out to collaborate.
You can see a video of Upchurch demonstrating the instrument above, which is a handheld, lo-fi piano recording device with loop switch, pitch control knob, and 1/8" output.
On the Brandnewnoise website, he explains the story behind his fascination with the instrument: "A friend living in Cape Town, South Africa brought back this crazy little thing called a Kalimba, an instrument made of rake tines, a piece of wood, and a bottle cap.
"Cool, right? Well, as Brandnewnoise would have it, sitting around the shop one day we thought to ourselves, "let’s make a kalimba!" And so we introduce to you, Zoots. Guaranteed sonic wizardry, beautiful melodies, and non-stop direct flights to Awesomeville."
The Ghostly edition is handmade from sustainable wood and features a hot-iron-branded Ghostly logo. You can find out more and order one here.
