The Almighty Groove offers Colombian rhythms and African roots on debut EP Frère d’Afrique
The Almighty Groove is the new production imprint of long-time musical adventurer, John Hollis.
Fri, 15 November 24
7 albums for daily meditation and reflection from around the world
During this uncertain time, many of us are having to spend longer periods of time alone. Whilst this comes with its challenges, it might also be seen as an opportunity for us to meditate and reflect, perhaps practising activities such as yoga, tai chi and mindfulness. We've selected seven Real World albums from different parts of the world to soundtrack the quieter moments of your day, to help you enter a different headspace, or just to provide some simple relaxation.
1. Kenya
En Mana Kuoyo
AYUB OGADA
Kenyan singer-songwriter Ayub Ogada was a busker on London’s Northern Line when he came to Real World’s attention in the late 80s. And this 1993 set —his only record for the label— proved that it was a meeting of minds, with his disarmingly simple arrangements allowed to hang there unadorned, making a lasting impression.
2. Tibet
Rain of Blessings: Vajra Chants
LAMA GYURME & JEAN-PHILIPPE RYKIEL
The meeting of a Tibetan Buddhist monk of the ancient Kagyupa School, messenger of one of the most ancient philosophies, and a French musician known for his mastery of the keyboards. This is an album of powerful chants with lush textures that capture the serenity of the Tibetan monasteries.
3. Ireland
The Seven Steps to Mercy
IARLA Ó LIONÁIRD
Following the success of Afro Celt Sound System’s first album, the band’s vocalist entered the studio with Canadian producer Michael Brook to create his debut solo album: a haunting set of songs drawn from the sean-nós singing tradition of Ireland as well as Ó Lionáird’s original musical ideas.
4. India
Rama Sreerama
U. SRINIVAS
U Srinivas is the child prodigy of Karnatak music who has taken the mandolin, an instrument unknown in India, to unique classical heights. A recording of an exquisite, candle-lit live performance at Real World Studios.
5. China
Music, Food and Love
GUO YUE
From his early years in The Hutongs of North-East Beijing, through the Cultural Revolution that exploded in 1966 when he was just eight years old, to his departure for London in 1982 and his vivid, bitter-sweet memories of recent visits back to China, Music, Food and Love paints a vivid picture of a remarkable life.
6. Armenia
Black Rock
DJIVAN GASPARYAN & MICHAEL BROOK
The black volcanic landscape of Lanzarote provided the unifying location for Gasparyan’s mellow, gorgeous performances and the inimitable creativity of guitarist/producer Brook. Together with multi-instrumentalist Richard Evans, they have created a dramatic, sultry and beautiful soundscape.
7. Japan
The Gate
JOJI HIROTA
Capturing the mastery and rhythmic grace of this outstanding Japanese contemporary multi-instrumentalist. Emotional vocals are interwoven with taiko drumming, shakuhachi and string quintet.
You can listen to a selection of calming and meditative tracks from all of these albums and many others on our Bliss playlist on Spotify, Apple Music and Deezer.
MAILING LIST
Embark on a voyage of musical discovery with us by signing up to the Real World newsletters
Further reading
The Breath announce Keep it Safe EP
The Breath, Ríoghnach Connolly (voice, shruti and flute) and Stuart McCallum (guitar, effects), ann...
Fri, 11 October 24
Track of the day: ‘AmmA’ by Bab L’ Bluz
'AmmA' draws on music from north-east Morocco and influences from Tunisia and Algeria.
Fri, 08 March 24
Track of the day: ‘IWAIWA FUNK’ by Bab L’ Bluz
French-Moroccan power quartet Bab L' Bluz, release the third track from their album Swaken.
Fri, 05 April 24