In a few days, two of the world’s most unique guitarists will perform a double bill for one night only at East London’s Rich Mix. And what a perfect name for a venue hosting musicians like Derek Gripper and Paolo Angeli, given both their rich and unusual fusions of musical genres, merging tradition and innovation.

Angeli’s prepared Sardinian guitar is a mini orchestra in itself, with its labyrinth of multi-directional strings, hammers, pedals and propellers being just as mesmerising to look at as it is to listen to.

Gripper’s set, though seemingly simple visually with his untampered classical guitar, creates music that is far from ordinary – performing his painstaking transcriptions and exquisite interpretations of West African kora music.

Both approach the guitar in remarkably different ways, and it is this coming together of their equally inspiring approaches under one roof that is definitely an experience not to be missed.

Get into Derek Gripper & Paolo Angeli’s tour mood listening to an introductory podcast published by Making Tracks and presented by Colin Bass: two solo guitars like never before!

Your Ticket to… 2020 (in 20+1 Albums)

Hard to believe that such a dire and dramatic year could inspire such an abundance of remarkable albums. Or maybe, on the contrary, the multitude of emotions sparked by the pandemic and our new life’s circumstances might have been the main reasons why musicians were able to write, record and…

Artists: AKKAN , Al Breadwinner , Bab L’Bluz , Chouk Bwa , Clap! Clap! , Derek Gripper , DUMA , Hugh Masekela , Khruangbin , Let Drum Beat , Nat Birchall , ONIPA , Santrofi , Son Rompe Pera , Songhoy Blues , Spoek Mathambo , The Ångströmers , The Sorcerers , Thundercat , Tony Alln

Album Review: Derek Gripper – A Year of Swimming [New Cape Records; April 2020]

In keeping with the traditional, classical style guitar techniques, Derek Gripper, once again, respectfully represents the quintessence of a traditional West African kora. Derek utilises his classically trained handiwork in favour of this tradition, of which the album delivers generously. The rhythmical complexities and soulful embellishments akin to the West…

Artists: Derek Gripper

Album Review: Derek Gripper – Libraries on Fire [New Cape Records, 27th May 2016]

With Libraries on Fire South African musician Derek Gripper brings us a new album of kora music transcribed for solo classical guitar, as he treads along the tricky line between homage and re-interpretation, showcasing a great deal of virtuosity and creative flair along the way. Gripper manages the distinctive bass lines…

Artists: Derek Gripper