Azul - two worlds

Azul means “hello” in Berber. Azul – Two Worlds is inspired by Akassar, a traditional Berber song recorded in 1961 as part of the Oxford University Expedition to the Atlas Mountains, now preserved in the Pitt Rivers Museum archive. When I first heard the field recording, its melodies and rhythms unexpectedly resonated with elements of traditional Korean music, evoking both familiarity and wonder. This connection inspired me to explore the cultural and historical context of the Berber people, whose long oral traditions and deep historical roots mirror the ancient musical heritage of Korea.

Guided by a respect for the original material, I sought to preserve its melodic character, rhythmic vitality, and live, organic texture. I layered improvisational gayageum and a variety of Asian percussion instruments with the field recording, using minimal reverb only to enhance spatial cohesion while keeping the recording prominent. Subtle quotations of the Korean folk song Kwaejina Chingching and traditional kkwaenggwari rhythms were incorporated, reflecting how two distinct musical worlds — each shaped by their own histories — can engage in dialogue and celebration without one overwhelming the other.

Throughout the process, I experimented with different instruments and approaches, repeatedly listening to the recording to ensure that the original essence remained central. The piece unfolds as a journey where Berber and Korean musical elements interact, highlighting both contrast and resonance, and conveying a message of shared joy, cultural respect, and the possibility of musical connection across time and space.

Akassar (song) with violin and drum reimagined by Hwayoung Shon.

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Part of the project A Century of Sounds, reimagining 100 sounds covering 100 years from the collections of the Pitt Rivers Museum at the University of Oxford. Explore the full project at citiesandmemory.com/century-sounds