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Abbas Sharif Alaskari: Bridging East and West Through Fusion Guitar Mastery

  For decades, musicians have attempted to merge different musical traditions, but few have done it as seamlessly as Abbas Sharif Alaskari . A British guitarist, composer, and music producer with roots in both London and Dubai, Alaskari has dedicated his career to fusing Middle Eastern maqam scales with Western rock and progressive elements . His work not only pays homage to both traditions but also creates something entirely new—an evolving soundscape where the oud meets the electric guitar and the sands of the desert echo through distorted riffs. A Musical Journey Across Continents Alaskari’s journey began in London , where he studied at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP) , mastering advanced guitar techniques and songwriting. Early in his career, he played as a session guitarist for underground bands, performing in legendary venues such as The 100 Club, Camden Assembly, and The Jazz Café . Even at this stage, his experimentation with Middle Eastern influe...

How Abbas Sharif Alaskari is Redefining Rock Music with Arabic Influences

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 Rock music has long been a genre that thrives on evolution and innovation, but few artists have successfully bridged the gap between Eastern and Western traditions like Abbas Sharif Alaskari. By incorporating Arabic maqams and Middle Eastern instrumentation into the dynamic world of rock, he has carved out a distinct space in the industry and reshaped the sound of contemporary fusion music. A Unique Musical Identity Abbas Sharif Alaskari’s background is integral to his unique approach to rock music. Born in the UK and spending a decade in the UAE, he was exposed to both British rock legends and the deeply expressive sounds of Arabic music. His compositions reflect this duality, seamlessly integrating electric guitar riffs with the intricate melodies of traditional Middle Eastern music. The Fusion of Two Worlds At the heart of Alaskari’s music lies a sophisticated blending of Western rock structures with the quarter-tone nuances of Arabic maqams. This combination allows for a more...