First Word are proud to present the Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra, the latest product of the same Northern music scene that produced the likes of The Haggis Horns and The New Mastersounds.
The Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra formed in late 2007 when members of the kidkanevil live show and First Word stalwarts Homecut began a series of late night afrobeat sessions at Leeds' Sela Bar. It was out of these jam sessions that the 8 piece Arkestra was born, combining their love of afrobeat with their appreciation of the space jazz pioneers of the 70's and the free jazz trailblazers of the 60's, coupled with a hefty nod towards James Brown.
Lead track 'Crosstown Traffic' needs no introduction ? a firing cover of the Hendrix classic, this is instant dancefloor dynamite. Already getting plays on Craig Charles Funk & Soul show, this is set to be a must-have record for any DJ in the funk / afro / jazz scene. On the flip 'Lost in Kinshasa' is another driving afrobeat club track, with the Ariya horns to the fore.