The quintet captures the 1970s fusion sound, yet at the same time sounds entirely contemporary. In fragile, transparent passages, Sameka seems like the deconstruction of a historical Western era, until oriental rhythms allow the proceedings to drift toward world music.
Or into the ethereal realm with saxophonist Daniel Buch's electric aerophone—just as Sameka enjoys oscillating between complex rhythms and unison lines. Electric bassist Simon Zauels founded the band five years ago; in 2021, they received a grant, with whose help and with guest oud player Hesham Hamra, they recorded their first album, full of original compositions, for Mons Records. "Jazz in Europe" praised this debut as "demonstrating great respect for tradition and, at the same time, a high degree of originality." As finalists in the Future Sounds Contest, Sameka performed at the Leverkusen Jazz Festival in autumn 2022.
The following March, Sameka embarked on her first international tour, which took her to Taiwan to share her music with a new audience.
On July 14, 2023, the quintet performed at the famous Jazzopen Festival in Stuttgart.
At the beginning of the year, Sameka entered into a new partnership with Timezone Records and is delighted to release her second album under this renowned label. The new album, titled "Sameka & Strings - Merlin's Journey," will be released on May 31, 2024.
The album promises a unique fusion of sound worlds, as it features a string quartet and once again the oud player Hesham Hamra.
To properly celebrate the release, the band will embark on an exclusive album release tour in Taiwan in March. This will offer fans the opportunity to experience the melodies of "Merlin's Journey" live before the album officially hits stores.
01 First Song
02 Merlin's Journey: I. Departure
03 Merlin's Journey: II. Peripeteia
04 Merlin's Journey: III Return
05 lǚcheng
06 Mallory's Walk
07 Mood Swings
08 Skip To The End
