Pita Parka Pt. II: Nim Egduf

Formed in 2016, Dun-Dun Band are a sprawling 10-piece ensemble from Toronto with members recruited from various jazz-adjacent groups and led by guitarist Craig Dunsmuir. They specialise in long, meandering yet deceptively focused jams that draw on an eclectic range of influences. This follow-up to last year’s full-length, Pita Parka Pt I: Xam Egdub, serves up more of the same, while providing the perfect introduction for newcomers. The presiding vibe is a kind of laid-back, ersatz, pan-African groove with clopping hand drums, fluttering faux-Ethio saxes, chiming guitar and liquid keys. But buried within are tantalising hints of Moroccan Gnawa, sounds inspired by the endless minimalist cycles of Terry Riley and the motorik insistence of 70s underground German rock groups like Can. Dunsmuir signals sudden yet smoothly executed transitions with conducted cues, revealing a band engaged in very deep listening. It’s hypnotic, entrancing and genuinely psychedelic.