PREMIERE: Thai-Canadian Drummer Salin Releases New Isan-Funk Single “Si Chomphu”

Montreal-based, Thai-born drummer/producer Salin has shared her first single of the year with “Si Chomphu”. Her upcoming project, due early next year, explores the sounds of traditional Thai instruments in harmony with ’70s soul, funk, and West African psychedelia. Leading the way, her new single bridges rich guitar grooves and history inspiration for a retro-tinged listen.

About the song, Salin shares, “‘Si Chomphu’ is inspired by the events that took place on October 6th, 1976 in Bangkok, known as the ‘Thammasat Massacre’. It aims to create a sense of urgency; the urgency for change. At the same time, its energy and syncopated feel can be likened to the idea of battle, a state of heightened alertness and our natural ‘fight or flight’ response in times of danger”.

Elaborating further on the artwork, she adds, “Si Chomphu” is the color pink. It is the bloodshed of those who fell fighting for freedom. It is the blossoming pink fields in summer; the hope that is born on the other side of hardship”.

Sonically, the track features the Khaen, a traditional northeast Thai and Lao reed instrument made from bamboo, playfully accentuating the funk and disco sounds of the keyboard and crisp percussion. Inspired by The Meters and Fela Kuti, the inter-continental release is a bright and compelling fusion of sound and time.

Listen below, and stay tuned for an accompanying music video set for release tomorrow: