Embryo’s music is characterized by its willingness to explore a wide range of musical styles that include jazz, rock, African, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American rhythms. They have collaborated with various musicians, including Charlie Mariano, Mal Waldron, and Albert Mangelsdorff, to name but a few. Embryo’s journey of exploration and experimentation is evident in their extensive catalog of over thirty studio albums and numerous live recordings, some of which are considered groundbreaking in the field of world music.
One of Embryo’s most notable releases is their 1972 album, ‘Steig Aus,’ which is often cited as one of the most influential Krautrock albums of all time. The album featured an all-star lineup of musicians that included Charlie Mariano on saxophone, John Kelly on violin, and John Tchicai on saxophone. The compositions on this album are hypnotic, trippy, and exploratory, and are made up of heavily edited improvisations that were recorded over several days. The result is an immersive soundscape that takes the listener on a journey of discovery.
In the late 70s, Embryo started to incorporate more world music elements into their music. This was in part due to their extensive travels around the world, where they collaborated with local musicians and learned about different musical traditions. Their 1979 album, ‘Embryo’s Reise,’ which translates to ‘Embryo’s Journey,’ reflects this global influence and features musicians from Africa, India, and Latin America.
Another standout moment in Embryo’s career is their collaboration with the Algerian Rai musician, Cheb Khaled, on the album ‘Diary of a Flying Cat’ in 1992. The combination of Embryo’s experimental jazz and Cheb Khaled’s North African music was a bold and exciting move that paid off, resulting in a unique and compelling fusion of styles.
Embryo’s music has been an influence on various artists and genres over the years. The German electronic music pioneers, Kraftwerk, were known to have been influenced by Embryo’s early improvisational style, while the British post-punk band, This Heat, cited ‘Steig Aus’ as a significant influence on their sound.
Embryo continues to be a relevant and vital force in experimental music, proving that their curiosity and willingness to explore different musical forms and cultures have kept them relevant for over five decades. Embryo’s music is an invitation to explore, experiment, and break down boundaries, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers worldwide. For those who have yet to experience Embryo’s music, their vast and diverse catalog is waiting to be discovered.