EM back in Thai territory!
This time we travel to 1970s Isan, the heartland of Thailand, to concentrate on the 'sor' (the traditional two-stringed violin that is a mainstay of Isan musical culture). This comp focusses on the talents of one of the instrument’s greatest proponents, bringing Thonghuad Faited's key releases together for the first time!
Detailed notes trace his history from humble beginnings to playing up to five gigs a night in Bangkok at the peak of his fame. Whether it's playing beautifully crafted solo pieces, or providing a counterpoint for raw vocal work, Thonghuad Faited is a nationally recognised master of his craft who has cut sides with dozens of established singers over the years, such as Waipod Petchsupan and Angkanang Kunchai.
Underpinned by woozy basslines, drones and clattering percussion, his music is characterised by sprightly melodies through to haunting dirges that could come from as far afield as eastern China, or even the Celtic traditions of Ireland.