Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra – Towards Other Worlds

The second LP from Leeds’ Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra continues where their self-titled 2010 debut left off; the nine-piece’s musical ancestry remains clearly in evidence, but the sheer diversity of those influences means that Towards Other Worlds doesn’t quite sound like anyone in particular. The outfit’s complex blueprint marries the narcotic rhythms of Fela Kuti with the epic conceptualism and improvisation of cosmic jazz; while funk-driven wah-wah guitars make an appearance on the title track.

Despite the Arkestra’s canny assimilation and manipulation of influences, however, Towards Other Worlds can feel lacking in emotional intensity. This may be because its underlying concept – the first half representing the frustrations and conflict of earth, the second yearning towards a utopian cosmos – feels like a less-developed take on the worldview of forebears like Sun Ra. Despite this, however, the adeptness with which the LP’s complex tapestry of influences is woven together remains impressive. [Sam Wiseman]