American musician Laraaji is one of the most distinctive, prolific, and charismatic artists in the new age scene. A master of multiple instruments, he primarily constructs his lengthy, meditative soundscapes from an electronically altered zither, hammered dulcimer, kalimba, synthesizers, piano, and other instruments, as well as natural sounds and vocals.
Since first gaining exposure in the early '80s after a chance meeting with ambient innovator Brian Eno, who produced the landmark release Ambient 3: Day of Radiance (1980), Laraaji has released countless cassettes and albums, ranging from the mantra-like synth-pop of Vision Songs, Vol. 1 (1984) to the extended drones of 1987's Essence/Universe.
He’s also collaborated with several electronic, experimental, rock, and dub musicians, including Japanese dub crew Audio Active (The Way Out Is the Way In, 1995), Bill Laswell (Divination's Sacrifice, 1998), and Philadelphia duo Blues Control (FRKWYS Vol. 8, 2011). In addition to his musical career, he is well known for his Laughter Meditation Workshops.
