The Wire Issue 502 - December 2025

Mulatu Astatke

Deep into his latest tour, the pioneering 81-year-old Ethio jazz vibraphonist is discovering fresh ways to express himself.

By Francis Gooding

Griot Galaxy

Faruq Z Bey’s enigmatic cosmic messengers blend Detroit’s underground jazz with Afrofuturist sci-fi themes.

By Mike Rubin

Alpha Maid

UK-based guitarist, vocalist, and producer Leisha Thomas crafts her own unique language of time loops, dub swirls, and grungy licks.

By Claire Biddles

Emergence Collective

This Sheffield group explores improvised utopias through the simple practice of pattern recognition.

By Daryl Worthington

Konrad Smoleński

The Polish artist links art and activism using alpine bells and sculptural instrument installations.

By Robert Barry

Invisible Jukebox: Test Dept

Can South London’s industrial veterans prove their strength with a mystery record test?

Tested by Mike Barnes

Debit

The Mexican-American producer revives 1990s cumbia rebajada with a modern twist.

By April Clare Welsh

Klinck Trio

Belgian chamber musicians collaborate across improvisation and avant-pop scenes.

By Clive Bell

Global Ear

Resistance underground opposes the rise of the far right in Vilnius.

By Andy Hamilton

Unlimited Editions

Enigmatic digital dispatches from jb glazer’s Glint Music.

“The pioneering 81-year-old vibraphonist is finding new ways to be himself.”

Author’s summary: This issue highlights diverse global artists innovating in jazz, activism, and avant-garde music, showcasing fresh creative expressions and cultural resistance.

The Wire - Adventures in Sound and Music — 2025-11-05