The Astrologer by Nujumi
The Astrologer, the second album by Nujumi (Daniel Merrill), explores what Daniel terms “Cai-fi”—a Cairo-inspired sci-fi vision where the familiar urban landscape transforms into a mystical, cosmic arena. Rooted in the influence of visionary thinkers like William Blake and Nikola Tesla, the album draws on themes of faith, resistance, and the spiritual power of standing at the margins to challenge the center.
A key inspiration is the story of Wad El-Nujumi, a dervish and Mahdist revolutionary, whose life embodies a complex blend of spiritual devotion and political defiance. These themes are intertwined with Nubian-inspired rhythms, influenced by Daniel’s wife, an ethnomusicologist specializing in Nubian heritage. While not intended as literal representations, these rhythms serve as imaginative reflections—fantasies born from deep engagement with Egyptian and Nubian culture. The Astrologer invites listeners into a soundscape where cultural heritage and cosmic mystery merge, creating an auditory experience both grounded and otherworldly.
Tracklist
| 1. | The Tomb Behind the Tumulous | 7:12 |
| 2. | The Astrologer | 4:51 |
| 3. | Telautomatics of the Darwish | 5:35 |
| 4. | The Magnifying Transmitter | 5:45 |
| 5. | Natures Trigger | 6:32 |
| 6. | Al Najm Al Qahir | 6:21 |
Credits
Nujumi is Daniel Merrill
All compositions, arrangement and musical performances by Daniel Merrill.
Production by Daniel Merrill
Online mastering by Daniel Merrill
Lathe cut vinyl mastering by Bladud Flies
Art work by Rana Kadry
Album design by Paul Stride-Noble
License
CC BY-SA 3.0. See the Creative Commons website for details.
Nujumi Sound is the platform through which composer and producer Daniel Merrill, releases locational /psychogeographic works.
Different locations are realised through different musical identities:
Nujumi = Egypt
Latter Roanoke = US / North Carolina