Sudan Archives views music not only as entertainment but as a form of world-building, weaving together historical and cultural threads to create a unique sonic map connecting the sacred with the synthetic, and the ancient with the modern. Her approach is fearless and multidimensional, blending various influences with bold creativity.
In a conversation from her home studio, Sudan Archives is surrounded by an array of stringed instruments: a Persian kamancheh, a West African fiddle, an Indonesian rebab, a Japanese kokyū, and an electric violin she describes as having a “very sci-fi” appearance. These instruments, displayed like artifacts, transform into dynamic vehicles of expression when played. “I’m currently collecting several more,” she shares, her enthusiasm evident. “Violins and fiddles hold deep significance across many cultures worldwide, and I enjoy exploring their diverse histories.”
Her fascination with traditional string instruments dates back to her childhood in Ohio, sparked by a visit from a Canadian folk group to her school. “They were energetic, dancing and stomping while playing the fiddle in a raw, liberating way,” Sudan Archives recalls. “Compared to the formal setting of an orchestra, this was vibrant and exciting—I wanted to be part of that.” This early inspiration propelled her on a global journey through music, ranging from Irish reels and Sufi traditions to church choirs and experimental club scenes, tracing the fiddle’s rich cultural journey through time and place.
Recently, she has been particularly drawn to Sufi music. “It deeply resonates with me and evokes memories of playing violin in my childhood church choir,” she says softly. Although her latest album, The BPM, incorporates electronic dance beats and hip hop influences, it maintains a hypnotic core inspired by Sufi sounds. This fusion of complexity and free-spirited energy characterizes her current creative phase, which she terms her “gadget girl” era—a blend of Detroit club vibes and ethereal melodies, driven by loop pedals, MIDI technology, and insatiable curiosity.
Behind her, the collection of fiddles seems to echo the unique frequencies of her music—resonant with the energy of both history and her personal artistry. This vitality flows through the thirteen tracks she has selected for her Baker’s Dozen, reflecting a deep, studied appreciation that culminates in exhilarating moments sourced from around the world. “While my sound has evolved into a form of almost art pop, at its core I maintain the perspective and spirit of a spiritual musician,” she explains. “The violin may seem less prominent to some listeners now, but it’s simply explored in more experimental and liberating ways.”
Sudan Archives’ album The BPM is currently available via Stones Throw Records. Explore her thirteen selected tracks to gain insight into the musical influences that have shaped her distinctive sound.
— The Violin Post Editorial Staff
