French-American guitarist, singer, and composer Nick Morrison has set the stage for a remarkable musical journey with the release of his latest single, “Mountain Goat.” Showcasing his passion for West African string music and drawing from his extensive musical experiences, Morrison’s new offering promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of folk and Afro-highlife rhythms.
With a musical journey that spans continents and genres, Nick Morrison has honed his craft over the years, drawing inspiration from his experiences jamming with luminaries such as Tinariwen and collaborating with artists from around the world. His time spent in Senegal in 2014 served as a catalyst for his exploration of global folk music, leading to the release of two vibrant EPs under the moniker Pallet of Leaves, in collaboration with his wife Maike Novák.
A versatile musician, Morrison’s contributions extend beyond his solo work, having been a member of bands like Charity Children and Soul Thrivers, and lending his talents as a sideman on numerous records. His association with the Polyversal Souls and the Philophon label has allowed him to share the stage with icons of African music, further enriching his musical journey.
“Moutain Goat” marks Morrison’s debut as a solo artist, backed by Ekowmania & the Rhythmers, an Afro-highlife band led by Ghanaian drumming legend Ekow Alabi Savage. The single showcases Morrison’s unique approach to the guitar, blending influences from American folk music and songwriters like Nick Drake and Paul Simon with the rhythmic complexities of African bands such as Thomas Mapfumo’s Blacks Unlimited and Malian artists like Ali Farka Touré.
With “Mountain Goat,” Nick Morrison invites listeners on a sonic journey that traverses continents and cultures, weaving together elements of folk, Afro-highlife, and West African string music into a captivating tapestry of sound.