The Wire Issue 502 - December 2025
On the Cover
Mulatu Astatke, the pioneering 81-year-old Ethio jazz vibraphonist, explores new ways to express himself during his latest tour.
By Francis Gooding
Featured Artists and Stories
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Griot Galaxy
Faruq Z Bey’s enigmatic cosmic messengers blend Detroit’s underground jazz with Afrofuturist sci-fi themes.
By Mike Rubin
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Alpha Maid
UK-based guitarist, vocalist, and producer Leisha Thomas forges a unique sound using time loops, dub swirls, and grungy guitar licks.
By Claire Biddles
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Emergence Collective
This Sheffield group uses pattern recognition to create improvised musical utopias.
By Daryl Worthington
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Konrad Smoleński
The Polish artist links art and activism through installations featuring alpine bells and sculptural instruments.
By Robert Barry
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Invisible Jukebox: Test Dept
Can South London’s industrial veterans prove their mettle with a surprise record from our mystery collection?
Tested by Mike Barnes
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Debit
The Mexican-American producer revives 1990s cumbia rebajada with a modern touch.
By April Clare Welsh
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Klinck Trio
Belgian chamber musicians combine improvisation and avant-pop in their collaborative work.
By Clive Bell
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Global Ear
Explores underground resistance against the far-right surge in Vilnius.
By Andy Hamilton
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Unlimited Editions
Enigmatic digital messages from jb glazer’s Glint Music project.
Author's Summary: This issue celebrates diverse musical innovations worldwide, highlighting artists who merge tradition, activism, and futuristic sounds to redefine contemporary music.