Gonjasufi seeks the mystical

Gonjasufi is not a typical sounding name for a hip-hop artist but then his music is far from typical. The name is very suitable and evocative of his unusual brand of hip-hop.

Interest first stirred in the mystical-sounding yoga teaching Gonjasufi after his appearance on the influential producer Flying Lotus’ classic 2008 album, ‘Los Angeles’. He appeared on the song ‘Testament’. Flying Lotus runs the uber-cool Brainfeeder label.

Sufism is a mystical ascetic Muslim sect whose followers often seek transcendence through repetitive singing and chanting. Gonja’s meaning is probably clear enough!

In 2010 Gonjasufi dropped his debut album ‘A Sufi and a Killer’ on the pioneering electronic label Warp, to some acclaim. Many of the tracks are kaleidoscopic affairs mixing a huge range of sounds and style from rock, psychedelic, 70’s Turkish sounds, acid folk, Bollywood style backing vocals and muffled, distorted vocals. Made with acclaimed LA producer Gaslamp Killer, it’s an oddball classic.

In January this year, the dread-locked Gonjasufi released a mini-album ‘MU.ZZ.LE’, a heavily distorted little gem, ten tracks long. This should be a great gig.

Gonjasufi plays Cyprus Avenue on Friday 15 June at 8pm. Tickets are €15.