STEFFEN BASHO-JUNGHANS

Whether working with the paintbrush, the guitar or the pen, Steffen manages to conjure up works of extreme intensity, focus and creativity.

Initially, interested in the writings of Basho, the Japanese poet and diarist of 17th century... Living on the 'wrong' side of the then still standing Berlin wall (wrong side for collectors of world music, probably the right side for internalising a persons unique creativity). Not everything from 'out side' culture penetrated through the wall, but fortunately two very important tracks did: Elk Dreamer's Lament and Variations on Ezumi by 60s Guitarist, Robbie Basho. The style of playing heard on these tracks would be the start of a journey of fascination and homage for Steffen, a journey that would end some years later with Steffen Junghans becoming Steffen Basho-Junghans. On hearing Robbie Basho's playing, one can indeed hear the influence/similarities, but don't be fooled, SB-J is certainly his own man. - Architects of Harmonic Rooms

A master of the 6 and 12 string guitar, Steffen Basho-Junghans moves between highly intricate patterns and bare, minimalist sections to create music of astounding beauty. He brings together Oriental and American Indian scale patterns, Folk-Western Raga as well as elements taken from the old Takoma School.