Gabriel Abedi’s Cinematic “Ekewo” Combines Modern Classical Music and Traditional Ewe Polyrhythmic Textures to Create a Sense of Something Greater on the Horizon

Gabriel Abedi, photo courtesy the artist

Gabriel Abedi’s song “Ekewo” is immediately striking with a cinematic resonance with its sonic richness and depth. It’s like music for a movie you wish existed about some kind of near future thriller drama or historical epic set in Africa. The title refers to an Ewe word that can be taken to mean “roots” in English in the sense of one’s origins and the cultural heritage that has helped to shape you and your perspectives and sensibilities. The dynamic song layers modern classical composition with the percussive and polyrhythmic textures of the Ewe music of Ghana and draws inspiration from a time in the nation’s history when the Ewe people escaped the rule of the dictator Togbe Agorkoli centuries ago. The piano melodies, the hushed but commanding vocals and the intricate yet evocative percussion conveys a sense of historical sweep and anticipation of something promising on the horizon. Listen to “Ekewo” on Spotify and follow Gabriel Abedi at the links provided.

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