Hashshashin - Śaraṇaṃ

Hashshashin return with their new record Śaraṇaṃ - a lush and meditative record of hypnotic rhythms, cinematic post-rock, and Eastern musical traditions on Art As Catharsis. 

On Śaraṇaṃ the Sydney-based trio weave three intricate compositions, drawing inspiration from artists like Secret Chiefs 3, Om and Grails as well as the classical and folk music of Afghanistan.

While still grounded in the band’s signature blend of odd time-signatures, psychedelia and transcendental drone, Śaraṇaṃ demonstrates how the trio have evolved since their expansive sophomore album Badakhshan (2019), which featured stringed instruments from across Tajikistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan in addition to bass and drums. 

The new record reveals a more focused and cohesive sound, primarily centered on the Afghan rubab, which guitarist Lachlan R. Dale has spent much of the last five years studying. Each song embraces the sonic and dynamic possibilities of the ancient instrument, creating a mood that is both reflective and hypnotic, with evocative compositions that slowly transport listeners across deserts, small towns, and the Hindu Kush. 

“I’ve fallen in love with the Afghan rubab,” says Lachlan. “I find myself drawn to it. Its sound has an intoxicating and trance-inducing quality, so it’s no wonder that it has had a place in mystical and shamanic practices of South-Central Asia. Specifically, I’ve been studying Afghanistan’s beautiful classical rubab tradition, which draws on Indian classical music, and is exemplified by artists like Ustad Mohammad Omar, Ustad Rahim Khushnawaz, and Homayoun Sakhi.”

With Śaraṇaṃ, Hashshashin continue to explore the possibilities of evocative, instrumental music, pushing beyond the bounds and limitations of post and progressive rock. They remain one of Australia’s most interesting and rewarding underground acts, breaking their own path to new sounds and inspirations, and seeking to take listeners on the journey with them.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you for looking at our listing, below are a few points to consider before making a purchase:

- All records we sell are Brand New - pre-orders will normally come sealed but if you are purchasing in stock items, please note the copy may have been unsealed for display in the shop. Please email straight after purchase to enquire if this is of importance to you.

- Orders won't ship until all items are released, so keep this in mind when purchasing multiple pre-orders or a mix of in stock and pre-order items.

- The 'Product' page will show the most up to date info we have with regards to the item and its release date, but this information is subject to change so check in with us if you have any questions.

- We unfortunately don't offer tax/vat outside of the UK via the website so please keep in mind that when the items arrives in your country you may be liable to pay a further charge before delivery. (all UK orders the price you see is the price you will pay). Please also note that we are unable to adjust the declared value on items sold internationally.