Abbas Sharif Alaskari on Between Two Worlds and His Next Musical Chapter
After a decade as the lead guitarist of Desert Echoes, Abbas Sharif Alaskari is turning his attention to a solo project: Between Two Worlds . The British guitarist, composer, and music producer describes it as a reflection of his musical evolution and his experiences in the UAE. The title captures the path of an artist who began developing his performance skills in London, immersed himself in Middle Eastern musical traditions in Dubai, and has now returned to the UK. Also known as Ali Sherif Al Askari, Abbas continues to explore how Arabic melodies and Western rock can come together in his music. The Story Behind the Title Between Two Worlds refers to more than two places. It also describes the musical influences that have shaped Abbas’s work. Contemporary performance and rock guitar formed one part of his journey; the melodic traditions he explored in Dubai became another. Abbas is particularly interested in Arabic maqam and its expressive possibilities on the guitar. Maqam gi...