Moontribe

*2022 repress* A mysterious psychedelic masterpiece: incredible Middle Eastern music of Moontribe is restored from tapes by Fortuna Records, that return with a mysterious album by the anonymous artist known only as Moontribe. A deep-space journey between tribal percussion, hypnotizing organs and long echo ripples, all joining in for a snake-charming voodoo ritual of which Moontribe is the Shaman. Expect African drums, hints of cumbia, and distant galaxy exploration in unmeasured doses. An absolute must-have For fans of Sun Ra, Moondog and Idris Ackamoor.

On the origin of the recording, the label explains “The two-inch tapes we were handed had no date. The album was, however, recorded by about a dozen musicians, following one spiritual leader, in one, unedited session. Whatever was played on the session ended up on the tape. The group chose to withhold mentioning their names in order to “strip a sense of self” from what they believe, becoming a vessel for a higher being, carrying signals they do not fully comprehend. All we could do is respect their wishes.

“Channelling a triangular pattern between traditional African, Caribbean and Middle Eastern influences, the psychedelic congregation stretch their hallucinogenic message deep into the cosmos, touching the stars and offering a “lament for a moon that never had its own moon”. Very impressive and immersive music, not to be missed.