A legendary musical fusion project is coming to SWX this October

A legendary musical fusion project is coming to SWX this October

Posted on: 19 Mar 2024

Afro Celt Soundsystem, a musical collective blending Gaelic, African and Bhangra music, are performing at SWX on Saturday 12 October.

 

Afro Celt Sound System are a European and African based musical collective bringing together folk music and showcasing the talent of musicians from across the world. Their ground-breaking fusion of African, Gaelic and Bhangra influenced sounds has won the hearts and minds of audiences around the world since the group’s beginning, bringing spirits and music from different cultures together for a breath-taking show.

 

Afro Celt Soundsystem date back to 1991, when group founder Simon Emmerson collaborated with Afro-pop artist Baaba Maal, and noted similarities between a particular African melody and Irish air. Following this, he was even told by another Irish musician that some believe the nomadic Celts to have originated in Africa or Asia before migrating to Europe. Afro Celt Soundsystem released their first album, Volume 1: Sound Magic, five years later in 1996.

Sadly, in March 2023, Simon Emmerson passed away after prolonged illness. Not only did Simon found Afro Celt Soundsystem, he was the driving force in its innovative genre defying recordings and live shows. His loss will be felt for many years by both the band and their fans alike.

 

But Simon was steadfast in his belief that the band should continue after his passing, and had been working on the next album for some time. The rest of the band have announced the new album OVA (short for Ovate), which will be released in Simon’s memory in October 2024, alongside the group’s first tour since 2019.

 

The innovative and symbolically-powerful group are always a delight, as their many followers through the world (especially at WOMAD festivals) can attest to, and this gig is sure to be no different. You can catch Afro Celt Soundsystem at SWX on Saturday 12 October. Get your tickets here.

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Patrick Bate

Patrick is a filmmaker with so much Bristol in his blood the white blood cells are graffiti'd. Educated at the Northern Film School in Leeds, he’s returned home to be a Videographer and Reviewer for 365Bristol and BARBI. When he’s not messing about with cameras, he enjoys playing guitar, spending far too much time on tabletop RPGs, and being an awful snob about cider. Have a look at his work here, or get in touch at patrickb@365bristol.com.