The first release of Halaken Soundsystem, the duo project of Halaken founders Mercan Dede and Dexter Crowe, opens a new avenue for experimentation and exploration of the space between generations, cultures, sounds, space and time. Showcasing the collaborative nature of the project with live musicians and field recordings from around the world, the track builds on powerful rhythms, an evolving arrangement and emotive melodies.
Originally written and performed decades ago by filmmaker, artist and dear friend of Halaken, Fernando Del Sol from Caravan of Light, the sermon evokes the spirit of the Halaken mission. Inspired by Del Sol’s words during lockdown the energy reflects lessons learned in isolation, disconnected from the fundamental necessity of collective expression. As “we return to community and escape the psychosis of the collective mind” we call for artists to embrace the fire within and drive us back into life and our search for truth and freedom.
As the world opens up, we travel from India to Turkey, Balkans, and across the Atlantic to the West, guided by voices and chanting, synths and chopped samples, finding mystical harmonies in the hum of the city. The thickly textured soundscape features the flourishing gypsy melodies of Aykut Sütoǧlu’s klarinet and brass, and the raw percussions of Hüseyin Ceylan, driving forward the movement of the piece. Illuminating our path to a new beginning, this story is a sonic invitation to look around and believe in magic.
Fire dancer: Anita Bombita
Photograph by Jen Cloutier
Artwork and video by Halaken Collective