Volume 1

Years ago, the study of percussion led Bill Summers to a particular ceremony in Brooklyn, where he was introduced to the rich history of religious, spiritual drumming by vocalist Leon Thomas. The path led him to Cuba, where he studied with a venerated master, immersed in a spiritual drum fraternity (Anya) that took him all the way back. He innately recognized the origin, the source, the foundation of all rhythm. The Forward Back concept is built on the back of African tradition: Summers plays three drums (bata), representing Father, Mother, and Child on each track. The call and response is a conversation, a reflection and a representation of mutual respect. The message exists to restore responsibility and duty to family for the Black American community that has been separated from family and tradition. Forward Back's collective experiences have created a sound that is ancient and new. "You can Listen to it, Dance to it, Pray to it, Smoke to it & Heal with it." There is much to learn about the ancient and powerful history of rhythm and it's place in human culture, and Bill Summers is leading the way back, and therefore the way forward, for his community and the world.

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