Ali Sherif Al Askari is a name that resonates with fans of fusion music, a guitarist and composer who has spent years bridging the gap between Middle Eastern maqams and British rock. His journey from London’s underground music scene to the thriving indie landscape of the UAE, and now back to the UK, showcases his evolution as an artist and his dedication to breaking musical boundaries.
Early Days in London: The Birth of a Signature Sound
Ali’s musical journey began in London, where he studied contemporary music performance at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP). Immersed in the city’s rich rock culture, he performed as a session guitarist in renowned venues like The 100 Club, Camden Assembly, and The Jazz Café. These early experiences shaped his technical prowess, but it was his deep appreciation for Arabic melodies that set him apart from other guitarists.
As he experimented with incorporating Middle Eastern scales into British rock riffs, Ali developed a unique sound that combined fretless guitar playing with progressive rock structures. This fusion became the hallmark of his music, leading him to explore new creative possibilities beyond the UK.
A Decade in the UAE: Pioneering Fusion Rock
In 2013, Ali Sherif Al Askari relocated to Dubai, a city emerging as a cultural hub for musicians from diverse backgrounds. There, he co-founded Desert Echoes, a band that redefined fusion rock by blending Arabic melodies with Western progressive influences. Their debut album, Echoes of the Dunes (2015), was a milestone, featuring compositions that seamlessly integrated the warmth of the oud with the intensity of rock guitars.
Their subsequent albums, Sands of Sound (2018) and Lost in the Mirage (2021), further refined their signature style. Songs like “Mirage Waltz” and “Dune Rhapsody” became anthems for fans of world music and progressive rock alike. Ali’s innovative use of polyrhythms and microtonal guitar work elevated his status as one of the most experimental fusion guitarists in the region.
Beyond performing, Ali made a significant impact as a music producer and sound engineer at Soundscape Studios, where he collaborated with rising Emirati and expatriate artists. His expertise helped shape the UAE’s indie music scene, earning him recognition as both a musician and mentor.
Returning to the UK: A New Chapter
In 2023, after a decade of musical exploration in the Middle East, Ali Sherif Al Askari returned to London with a renewed artistic vision. His current focus is on his solo album, Between Two Worlds, a deeply personal project that encapsulates his experiences in both the UAE and the UK. The album blends Middle Eastern maqams, British rock energy, and cinematic soundscapes, creating a genre-defying sonic experience.
Ali has also embraced his role as an educator, joining BIMM London to teach fusion guitar techniques. Through his workshops and online music academy, he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians, encouraging them to experiment with cross-cultural musical styles.
The Evolution of a Fusion Maestro
Ali Sherif Al Askari’s journey from the UK to the UAE and back has shaped him into a true fusion maestro. His ability to merge the intricate beauty of Middle Eastern music with the raw energy of rock continues to push boundaries. As he prepares for the release of Between Two Worlds, his story stands as a testament to the power of cultural exchange in music.
With a career defined by innovation and passion, Ali Sherif Al Askari remains a guiding force for musicians looking to blend tradition with modernity. His evolution is far from over, and the world eagerly awaits the next chapter in his musical odyssey.