Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Afro Celt Sound System Pay Tribute To Simon Emmerson With New Album
Trailblazing world music troupe announce details of their long-awaited label debut for Six Degrees Records, a final testament to late founding member’s pioneering vision
Afro Celt Sound System’s Johnny Kalsi and N’Faly Kouyaté
Transnational fusion crew Afro Celt Sound System release their long-awaited first full-length for new label Six Degrees Records on October 4. OVA, the Grammy-winning outfit’s eighth studio album, featuring original members N’Faly Kouyaté and Johnny Kalsi alongside Irish singer and flautist Rioghnach Connolly, plus guests including Robin Harris (bodhrán), Ewan Henderson (violin) and Simon ‘Mass’ Massey (programming, keys, electronics and production), will also be the collective's last with late founder Simon Emmerson at the helm.
Charged with pumping global pulses, subtle electronics, traditional African instrumentation, Irish airs and polyphonic chants, OVA is unmistakably imbued with Emmerson’s generosity of spirit and creative passion. His presence and inspiration can be felt throughout the album’s tapestry of evocative textures and rousing anthems, while its title – a respectful throwback to British punk designer Jamie Reid’s logo which adorned early Afro Celt Sound System album covers – is emblematic of an interest in Druidic beliefs and nature (both he and Reid were Honorary Bards in The Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids), its overlaying of ‘O’, ‘V’ and ‘A’ to spell “egg” evoking ideas of creation and regeneration central to his work with the Afro Celt Sound System.
Regarding Emmerson’s final album with the group, long-time collaborator and bandmember N’Faly Kouyaté comments: “OVA is, for me, the pinnacle of Simon’s artistic career. He invested every fibre of his being into this work, dedicating himself wholeheartedly and passionately until he completed it in his bed… It is more than a mere collection of tracks; it is a living work… a symbiosis of our inspirations and shared passion. This album embodies our common dream of merging our cultures through music, thus creating a bridge between worlds, carried by love, creativity, and a profound respect for our respective traditions… This album is our legacy, a testament to our friendship and our love for music.”
OVA will be released via Six Degrees Records on October 4
