Focal Point by James Asher

*FOCAL POINT*
James Asher & Byron Metcalf

World renowned master percussionists James Asher and Byron Metcalf join forces in this explosive collaboration into the unifying power and passion of *DRUMS!*
FOCAL POINT is a pioneering interplay of tribal spirit
and a full-bodied exploration of their musical depths, virtuosity and wisdom. The riveting dynamism of the drumming sources used by Asher and Metcalf emerged from a deep primal creativity These extraordinary artists in the field of tribal-trance-shamanic drumming, provide potent and evocative drum-scapes that challenge and invite the listener to move, dance, breathe, journey or drum along! Sitting still while listening to FOCAL POINT may prove to be a challenge!

Metcalf credits Asher as being a primary influence and early inspiration to explore more deeply the magic and healing potentials of tribal drumming and contemporary world music. Metcalf says “It felt like an honor beyond my imagination when James asked me if I was interested in creating some music together!”
Asher was delighted to happen upon the spirited, personal and characterful nature of Metcalf`s work, and was curious and excited to learn how a collaboration might sound. When contact was established, it became immediately clear that like-minded, kindred spirits offered minimal challenges, and a huge amount of fun.


(1) Terms of Entry

(2) No Waiting

(3) Forces of Nature

(4) Soulful Precision



Composed, performed and produced by James Asher and Byron Metcalf

Recorded in Starfield Studios, UK and The Lair, Prescott Valley, AZ

Final mixes by Byron Metcalf at The Lair

Mastered by Gwyn Mathias, GBdb

Graphic design - James Asher, Daniel Thomas


James Asher - Djembes, shakers, darabuka, taiko, katsugi, zabumba, congas,
dholak, dumbek, woodblocks, djun-djuns



Byron Metcalf - Various frame drums, buffalo drums, udu (clay pot)



© 2024 Radiant Music (ASCAP), Dr Bam's Music (BMI)

Trained as a sound engineer, Asher`s first studio was built with equipment loaned by Pete Townshend of the Who.After 25 library albums, Asher formed the label Lumina. On this was his first commercial album The Great Wheel. Globalarium followed as a first entry into world music fusion. But it was the album Feet in the Soil which boosted his profile.He has made 30 albums,