Artem Uzunov
Let’s do it – Darbuka stories (Sketis Music SKMR-105, 2013)
As the album’s title indicates, Let’s do it – Darbuka stories is a percussion album where the goblet-shaped darbuka drum takes the center stage. The darbuka is a well-known musical instrument in North Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. The name, and sometimes spelling, varies depending on the region. Artem Uzunov is one of the finest percussionists in Russia and Let’s do it – Darbuka stories showcases his talent as a master percussionist.
The darbuka is commonly used in belly dance music and most of the pieces on Let’s do it – Darbuka stories have bellydance in mind. However, Artem Uzunov explores other territories. One of the most exciting pieces is “FlashOfBeat” where Artem combines the dazzling acoustic sound of the darbuka with irresistible electronic dance music beats and a fascinating light show.
On ‘I Wanna Dance’ he mixes various percussion instruments with female vocal percussion. Meanwhile, ‘Summer Fantasy’ introduces the darbuka to the well-known classical work ‘Four Seasons’ by Vivaldi.
Brazilian carnival inspired the fiery ‘Sambuka.’ The cajón takes the spotlight on ‘Verdadera pasión’ a piece modeled on flamenco percussion. Lastly, on ‘Unio Mystica’ we find great interplay between the percussion and duduk.
The lineup on the album includes Artem Uzunov on darbuka, dhol, cajon, dohola, bendir, rick, sagats, vocals, and arrangements; Katya Kato on vocals; Ildar Shaymardyanov on duduk; Alexei Morozov on Brazilian percussion; and Igor Nazarenko on guitar.
Artem often tours Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) with his solo projects. He is a frequent guest on radio and TV. Artem also participates in master classes by famous dancers and develops original duet performances with famous bellydancers and DJs.
In addition to his solo projects, Artem participates in various group projects, including the percussion show group Ethnobeat; frame drum project Akhtamar; the ensemble of Middle Eastern music Araban and various other ventures.
Buy Let’s do it – Darbuka stories
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
