ARKA'N ASRAFOKOR Signs To Atomic Fire Records; Band Finishes Work On Second Studio Album
Photographer: Mouad El YkbGermany-based metal record label and distributor Atomic Fire Records has announced the signing of Togolese band Arka’n Asfokor. The band is noted for their interpretation of heavy metal drawing on influences from traditional African music and spirituality. Atomic Fire Records A&R Ute Linhart praised Arka’n Asrafokor when announcing the deal.
“The world can expect highly infectious rhythms and straight-in-your-face beats from this group that will make one’s blood pumping at high speeds,” said Linhart. “The unique signature sound footprint they’ve created for themselves will make them become nothing but the biggest metal act to rise out of Africa. Keep your eyes peeled to not miss out on one of the first highlights hitting the metal scene early next year!”
Arka’n Asrafokor consists of Rock Ahavi (guitars, lead vocals), Enrico Ahavi (keyboards, vocals), Francis Amevo (bass), Mass Aholou (percussion) and Richard Siko (drums). The quintet burst onto the scene in 2010. Since then, the band has been at the forefront of the rising metal scene in Africa.The group drives their name from the Togolese term, “Asrafocore” meaning "Music Of The Warriors.” Recently Arka’n Asrafokor returned to the stage with a couple of shows in France; Cabaret Vert in Charleville- Mézières and Motocultor Festival in Cairhax. Those performances marked the group’s first foray into the European festival circuit.
Arka’n Asrafokor is feeling positive about the future of the band and their place in the international metal scene. The band is currently working on a yet-to-be-titled album for Atomic Fire Records.
“Dear friends, our mission started twelve years ago. We have made strides thanks to our brothers and sisters back home in Togo, on the Motherland, and in different parts of our beloved Planet Earth. Brothers and sisters who have been walking with us. And we are thankful for every step. Now we are moving to another level to boost the spread of our asrafocore music and message worldwide. We are extremely happy and humbled to announce our signing with powerhouse metal label Atomic Fire Records (featuring Meshuggah and Opeth, among other amazing artists/bands). We thank the Atomic Fire Records team, all the key souls who made this dream possible. Special thanks go to the precious friends who have been supporting our mission since Day 1. As promised, we have been in our studio to bring you more asrafocore, taken to a higher level: new album released early 2024. Stay true, stay strong, stay metal - this is… ARKA’N ASRAFOKOR!”
