Sudan Archives is a 23 year-old violinist and vocalist who writes, plays, and produces her own music. She draws inspiration from Sudanese fiddlers, elements of R&B, and experimental electronic music . She grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she took up violin and eventually taught herself how to play the instrument by ear.
Intrigue and a change of name lead her to discover North-East African music and specifically the violin playing style of Sudan, opening her eyes to the possibility of playing the instrument in a non-western style. “The way they played it was different from classical music. I resonated with the style, and I was like, ‘Maybe I can use this style with electronic music,'” she says.
This fusing of Sudanese folk music and electronic production changed the game for Sudan, who realised she had something special when laying down the strings and electronics for ‘Come Meh Way’.
Her EP ‘Sudan Archives’ (out on Stones Throw) is an extraordinary debut statement with six tracks, she layers harmonies, violin and sublime vocals bringing it altogether with hip-hop beats.
Come Meh Way
Paid