Jon Hassell's 1983 album "Aka / Darbari / Java" is a pioneering work that blends ambient, minimalism, avant-garde, and drone genres into a unique sonic experience. Recorded with producer Dan Lanois in Canada, this album showcases Hassell's innovative use of the trumpet, processed through computer technology to create a chorus of trumpets that trace the motifs of the Indian raga Darbari. The album also features Senegalese drumming recorded in Paris, adding a rich layer of rhythmic complexity.
With tracks like "Empire I-V" and "Darbari Extension I-II," Hassell explores themes of cultural fusion and musical evolution. The album's title, "Magic Realism," reflects its dreamlike quality and the way it seamlessly blends different musical traditions. "Aka / Darbari / Java" is a testament to Jon Hassell's visionary approach to music, making it a standout work in his discography and a significant contribution to the ambient and experimental music genres.
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