Exploring the musical odyssey of The Sorcerers: "I Too Am A Stranger"

As the album title suggests, "I Too Am A Stranger" reflects the cosmopolitan and intercultural networks that shape our world. Recorded at ATA Studios by The Sorcerers themselves, the album embodies the studio's commitment to analog production, resulting in a sound that is both authentic and timeless. Led by bassist Neil Innes, Joost Hendrickx's rare grooves on drums, alongside Richard Ormrod's multi-instrumental prowess, create a rich tapestry of sound. Olivia Cuthill, a promising trumpeter from Leeds, enhances the brass sections, while Danny Templeman adds depth to the percussion palette. It as well features an eclectic tracklist that showcases The Sorcerers' diverse influences and musical prowess. From the haunting melodies of "Moth" to the hypnotic rhythms of "The Dao of The Sorcerers," each track offers a glimpse into the band's sonic universe.

Originally intended to be another Ethiopian-inspired track, the second single from The Sorcerers took an unexpected turn with the addition of Richard Ormrod's roaring baritone saxophone. This infusion of sound drew inspiration from classic chanbara film soundtracks by Fumio Hayasaka and others, leading to the creation of "Yasuke in Roppongi." The track pays homage to Yasuke's perspective, an African servant brought to Japan by a Jesuit priest, who later became a samurai under the warlord Oda Nobunaga, of modern-day Tokyo Clubland, The Sorcerers blend history with imagination in this evocative piece. From the enchanting flutes in "Bebaynetu" and "Kid Mahout" to the alto saxophone in the closing track, "She Who Perceives The Sounds Of The World," The Sorcerers pay homage to the rich musical heritage of Addis Ababa.

Beyond Ethiopian influences, "I Too Am A Stranger" references other captivating sounds that have inspired the ATA family, including the fuzzed-out vibes of The Stark Reality and the woodblocks of Moondog. The Sorcerers invite so listeners, to join them on a transcendent musical odyssey, where the power of music transcend language and geography, forging connections that resonate across time and space. Get ready to lose yourself in the mesmerizing soundscape of The Sorcerers' latest offering.


 

The journey of The Sorcerers traces back to their inception, where a shared passion for music led them to explore various genres and styles. They embarked on a quest to create a sound that transcends boundaries and resonates with audiences worldwide.

Indeed, rooted in the vibrant cultural landscape of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, The Sorcerers' musical identity is deeply influenced by the country's rich musical heritage. From the soulful melodies of traditional Ethiopian music to the hypnotic rhythms of jazz and funk, the band seamlessly blends diverse musical elements to create a sound that is uniquely their own. Over the years, from their early experiments with Ethiopian jazz to their more recent forays into psychedelic and experimental sounds, the band's musical journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of creative expression.

"I Too Am A Stranger" represents the culmination of The Sorcerers' musical odyssey. With each track, the band invites listeners to embark on a sonic adventure, where every note and rhythm tells a story of exploration and discovery. As The Sorcerers continue to push the boundaries of their craft, one thing remains constant—their unwavering commitment to creating music that transcends language and culture, forging connections that unite audiences around the world. With "I Too Am A Stranger," get ready to lose yourself in the mesmerizing soundscape of The Sorcerers' latest offering.

THE SORCERERS "I Too Am A Stranger"

A1 - He Who Kills With One Leap
A2 - Moth
A3 - Yasuke in Roppongi
A4 - Bebaynetu
B1 - The warrior code
B2 - Kid Mahout
B3 - The Dao of The Sorcerers
B4 - Oromo Moon
B5 - She who perceives the sounds of the world

Bigwax Distribution