Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra

Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra

Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra is a Leeds-based group that plays afrobeat with elements of funk, jazz, soul and world music. The band forms in 2007 after a series of jam sessions at Sela Bar, a basement bar and music venue in Leeds.

Style and influences

The group’s sound draws on Fela Kuti’s Africa 70, along with the space jazz of the 1970s and the free jazz of the 1960s. It also reflects the influence of James Brown and Tony Allen, both of whom the band identifies as major inspirations. Their music uses afrobeat rhythm and language, while extending into related jazz forms.

Recordings and releases

In 2009 the band signs to the independent label First Word Records. Their first single appears in 2010 on 7-inch vinyl. The A-side is a cover of Jimi Hendrix’s Crosstown Traffic, while the B-side is the original track Lost in Kinchasa. The band’s self-titled debut album, Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra, is released later in 2010 on digital download and CD. Much of the album and single is recorded and mixed at Analog Rooms in Elland.

Performances and recognition

In 2010 the band plays at venues and events including London’s Plan B, Vibe Bar, The Wardrobe in Leeds, Limetree Festival and Shambala Festival. Later that year they perform a live session on BBC6 Music for the Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show. Jamie Cullum also names the group among his sounds and new bands of the year after playing them on BBC Radio 2.