Invitation to Istanbul

Moppy, the Turkish music specialist from the world dance party Soi48, presents an exploration of Anatolian Rock, Turkey’s psychedelic music movement.

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The Republic of Turkey, uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Arab world, cultivated a rich and distinctive sound. Influenced by Western pop and jazz, Islamic melodies, and traditional Middle Eastern instruments like the saz and darabukka, Istanbul became a melting pot where diverse musical cultures intertwined to produce something truly unique.

The melodies, said to have roots in Central Asian folk songs, deeply resonate with me as a Japanese listener.

In the late 1960s, psychedelic music, which already carried an “Eastern-oriented” sensibility, made its way to Turkey from Europe. The sound blended seamlessly with Turkish ears, giving rise to Anadolu Pop/Rock—a distinctly psychedelic Turkish musical style.

While the psychedelic movement in the West faded within a few years, its influence persisted in Turkey until the early 1980s when the military coup imposed restrictions on music.

This showcase highlights tracks from 1970s Anadolu Pop/Rock. Please immerse yourself in the grooves and melancholic melodies of the era.