ABOUT

This unique formation consists of three extraordinary artists. The first is Chris Eckman—co-founder of the renowned Glitterbeat Records label, musician (best known for The Walkabouts), composer, producer, film score author, and a tireless promoter of valuable music from across the globe. The second is Hugo Race—the famous Australian unconventional guitarist, songwriter, and leader of The True Spirit and The Fatalists, who for years was associated with Nick Cave’s iconic band, The Bad Seeds.

It was their meeting that sparked a project based on the fusion of guitar-driven rock, avant-garde exploration, and folklore from different corners of the world. Desert sounds from Mali, where the musicians recorded one of their albums, blend uniquely with rock’n’roll and blues. These elements are woven into tales of borders and walls, cold fronts and cold hearts, creating a truly brilliant and poignant effect. As the third member of the group—Murat Ertel, leader of Baba Zula—puts it: “we need this kind of music to stay sane.”

GLITTERBEAT RECORDS 

The concert was part of Glitterbeat Records’ showcase The history of this remarkable label begins with the famous Glitterhouse publishing house, dating back to the 1980s. For years, it was one of the leading and most important “off-beat” publishers in Europe. Founded in Germany, the label built its brand and international standing through years of collaboration with the iconic American label Sub Pop. Their publishing catalog is truly impressive, featuring acts such as The Melvins, Mudhoney, Pere Ubu, Green River, and Dirtmusic.
It is with this last band that Chris Eckman—the current program director and co-owner of Glitterbeat Records—is closely associated. In 2012, Eckman and Peter Weber (co-owner) created a special sub-label within Glitterhouse, focusing heavily on independent and exploratory world music that bridges traditional sounds with the avant-garde. Thus, the original Glitterbeat Records was born, now operating independently and on its own terms across two countries: Germany, where Peter is based, and Slovenia, home to Chris.
The label’s fascinating history and multiculturalism deeply influence its profile, image, and the character of its releases. In their catalog, one can find African ethnic sounds, contemporary Arabic music, guitar rock, and psychedelia—referencing the classics of these genres—as well as independent electronics. Notably, Glitterbeat Records has consistently topped rankings and year-end lists. Last year, for the fourth consecutive time, they were named the best label showcased at the WOMEX trade fair.

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