Africa and Germany meet in album ‘Afrokraut’ by David Nesselhauf
In 2016 the world seems to be more connected in communication, yet more segregated than ever in culture. It is a time for fresh ideas about re-connecting things. David Nesselhauf, producer, composer and multi instrumentalist from Hamburg, Germany gives it a try. His new album re-visits a time in the 70s when innovative bands like Can were working on a rhythmic and experimental fusion of African music and German rock, which was labelled afrokraut.
Nesselhauf’s modern take on the genre goes beyond the standards of contemporary electronic, jazz, pop or club music. As much as the thirteen tunes of his album “Afrokraut” nod towards the dance floor as their common factor, they also address topics like migration and exclusion and take a strong stand for global togetherness. Just listen to opening tracks “Boat Mama” and “Outer Banks” and you see what Nesselhauf is on about. Recorded and mixed on vintage equipment at Dennis Rux’s ultra-cool Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! Studios in Hamburg, “Afrokraut” sounds deep, authentic and visionary at the same time. Renowned Dutch artist Chantal Rens delivered a strong statement for the cover artwork.
With a diverse catalogue of albums ranging from electro to doom to look back on, his works with funk celebrities Diazpora as their bass player and collaborations on production with Pee Wee Ellis, Lew Soloff (Blood, Sweat & Tears), Flo Mega or Faust, running his own little record label as well as his education at the Drummer’s Collective in NYC, David Nesselhauf is a well established player in the German independent music scene. “Afrokraut” features a range of musical guests. Gambian vocalist Amadou Bah features on the first single “Come Along Bintang Bolong”, an irresistible Afrobeat burner, Diazpora drummer Lucas Kochbeck is an integral part on various album highlights, most notably the mysterious “A Route Obscure” and the intense “Dirt Track”. Then, of course, we have the sweet and groovy vocals of Kinga Lizz and Nabil Atassi on the funky “Open Up!”.
“Afrokraut” is full of unique vibes and the message it carries is more valid than it ever was.
“Afrokraut” out on LP/CD/Digi on October 30th via Légère Recordings
