Please enjoy these two pachyderm playlists, trunk-selected by DJ Desi Derm to demonstrate elephants’ broad range (musical and geographical), as well as his own commitment to live performance (elephants never preset).
DJ Desi Derm’s Local Rumbles
These songs, from a range of styles and cultures, represent elephants’ peak geographical range.
- Tsotsi (Gangster) by Amabutho
Featuring three marimba players plus other percussion and great vocals, the ensemble Amabutho adds modern lyrics and themes to traditional South African music. - Allahi Allah by Niyaz
The Iranian-born duo Niyaz may call Canada home now, but this Urdu folk song has roots in a part of Central Asia that once had its own branch of the elephant family. - Sindhi-Bhairavi by Ravi Shankar
A classical Indian raga, this song showcases the talent of a modern master on the sitar, one who played Madison Square Garden alongside a Beatle. - Shule Yako – Nifunze by Mercy Masika
Kenya has a vibrant gospel music tradition, so take a moment to appreciate one of its shining voices. Then scope out the rich Kenyan music scene on YouTube. - Beware of the Boys (Mundian to Bach Ke) by Panjabi MC
Want to get the bhangra dance party started? Crank this one up and watch everyone in the room rediscover their Punjabi heritage (even those who don’t really have one).
Click here for the full pachyderm playlist.
DJ Desi Derm’s Live Infrasounds
Elephants never forget to rumble to these live tracks.
- In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3 – Live Soundboard Bootleg, Revention Center, Houston, TX 03/17/16 by Coheed and Cambria
If an alternate Earth ever invades, we should all join Claudio’s Army and make this our anthem. “Man your battle stations.” (Please note, the title links to a different live version of this song, enjoy them both.) - While My Guitar Gently Weeps – Live at the Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame Induction by Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Steve Winwood, Dhani Harrison & Prince
You may recognize a couple of the artists who played this rendition, and Dhani Harrison’s father wrote the song. But make sure you check out Harrison’s own work. He’s got the music and a beautiful soul. - La Villa Strangiato – Rio Live by Rush
Not to brag, but the three members of Rush had already been rocking for 28 years when they recorded this track in 2002. They kept touring until 2015, making it 41 total years as a band. - Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me – Live at Wembley Arena by George Michael & Elton John
Want to make an impression? Then don’t just cover a song. Do like George Michael and invite the original, legendary performer up on stage to join you in a duet. - This Dying Soul – Live at Budokan by Dream Theater
For virtuosity, you will find it tough to beat a Dream Theater performance. Also, try not to gasp at the drumming on this one.
Click here for the full pachyderm playlist.