Volker Lankow – Abandoned Land (self-release, 2021)
German ambient electronic music artist Volker Lankow released Abandoned Land in 2021, an album dedicated to Afghanistan and its people. Here, Lankow crosses over into captivating ethno-ambient terrain, interweaving cinematic ambient layers with global percussion and world music influences. Several track titles reference Pashtun words derived from Pashtunwali (also known as Afghanyat), the traditional Pashtun code of ethics. The album highlights three fundamental principles: Nanawatai (asylum), Badal (justice/revenge), and Melmastya (hospitality).
Lankow acknowledges that the full depth of Pashtunwali can only be truly understood by those who have lived it since childhood. The album was recorded and produced in May 2018, with Lankow performing all percussion and electronic elements. The cover art was also created by Lankow.
Buy Abandoned Land.