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 influences set him apart in the UK’s crowded rock scene.

In 2013, he relocated to Dubai, where he co-founded Desert Echoes, a progressive rock band that blended Arabic melodies with modern rock instrumentation. The band’s three studio albums—Echoes of the Dunes (2015), Sands of Sound (2018), and Lost in the Mirage (2021)—gained widespread recognition in the UAE’s emerging indie music scene. His time in the Middle East allowed him to deepen his understanding of maqam-based compositions, incorporating fretless guitar techniques and quarter-tone bends inspired by the oud and Arabic classical music.

The Fusion Guitarist’s Signature Sound

Alaskari’s signature sound is a delicate balance between two worlds. His playing is deeply influenced by classic British rock legends such as David Gilmour, Jimmy Page, and Jeff Beck, yet he seamlessly integrates elements from Arabic classical music and Sufi traditions.

His compositions often feature:

• Microtonal bends and fretless guitar techniques, reminiscent of the oud and Arabic maqam scales.
• Complex time signatures and layered textures, inspired by progressive rock.
• Extended solos with cinematic, atmospheric tones, creating an almost hypnotic effect.
• Live looping and experimental effects, giving his performances an improvisational and immersive quality.

Return to the UK and a New Chapter

After a decade in the UAE, Alaskari returned to London in 2023, where he is currently working on his much-anticipated solo album, Between Two Worlds. This project reflects his experiences living between the Middle East and the UK, encapsulating the essence of both musical cultures. The album promises to be a sonic bridge—a personal and cultural dialogue between British rock and Arabic traditional music.

Alongside his solo career, Alaskari is also shaping the next generation of fusion musicians. As an instructor at the British & Irish Modern Music Institute (BIMM), London, and through his online music academy, he teaches aspiring artists how to blend different musical styles, emphasizing cultural exchange and innovation.

Pushing the Boundaries of Fusion Music

Abbas Sharif Alaskari’s work is more than just a musical experiment; it’s a testament to the power of music as a unifying force. In an industry where genres often remain rigidly defined, he continues to break down barriers, proving that music has no borders—only infinite possibilities.

With his unique fusion guitar style, his commitment to cultural exploration, and an ever-evolving sound, Alaskari remains a trailblazer in the world of contemporary fusion rock. As he embarks on the next phase of his career, one thing is certain—his music will continue to resonate across continents, blending the rich traditions of the past with the innovations of the future.