Nomo Transcends Afrobeat for Cosmic Funk Sound

Nomo, the Michigan-based collective, has unveiled their third album, Ghost Rock, signaling a bold departure from their earlier Afrobeat-inspired sound. While the groove remains central, it now pulses with a deeper, stranger energy. The band's arrangements have transformed, favoring a spacier, more symphonic texture over the raw crunch of Afrobeat.

This evolution positions Nomo as innovators, moving beyond homage to Fela Kuti. Early tracks like "Brainwave" introduce unexpected metal percussion and warm synths, eschewing traditional horn themes for intricate rhythms. "All the Stars," featuring guest percussionist Hamid Drake, highlights this new sonic landscape, drawing comparisons to gamelan orchestras with its interlocking percussive patterns and unique DIY instruments.

While some familiar elements persist, Ghost Rock integrates Nomo's signature metallic percussion, thumb pianos, and amplified sticks into a more sophisticated tapestry. Horn arrangements, influenced by Charles Mingus, now complement rather than dominate. This exciting, kinetic sound reorients Nomo toward the future, successfully blending funk with cosmic explorations through inventive use of metal, electricity, and hands-on creation.