Suns Of Arqa

Suns Of Arqa

Suns Of Arqa is a world music collective founded in 1979 in Manchester, England by Wadada. The project has members in many countries and, since its formation, more than 200 musicians from over 30 countries have taken part. It operates as a collaborative outfit rather than a fixed band, and it continues to tour and work with musicians and producers from around the world.

Style and approach

The collective is known for crossing cultural boundaries between ancient and modern musical forms. It is described as one of the first acts to combine the melodic structure of Indian raga with dub reggae rhythms and electronic music. As music technology develops, the group also brings traditional ethnic instruments together with producers and DJs working in digital styles. It is widely associated with world music and is regarded as an early pioneer of what is now called world beat.

Collaborators and members

Over the years, Suns Of Arqa includes a wide range of musicians and producers, among them Adrian Sherwood, John Leckie, Prince Far-I, The Orb, 808 State, A Guy Called Gerald, Kadir Durvesh and Ragunath Seth. The project remains closely associated with Wadada, who continues to tour under that name.

Releases and labels

The group has released more than 35 albums, including 35 albums of its own according to the available record, on labels such as EMI, Virgin, Interchill and Antler Subway. Its albums are also issued through its own label, Arka Sound. Two later releases, Big & Live and Hallucinasia, are distributed worldwide by Arabesque.

Live work

Suns Of Arqa has performed at major festivals including the first WOMAD Festival, Glastonbury Festival, Phoenix Festival and Trans Musical Festival.