Search - Emil Zrihan :: Ashkelon

Judeo Andalusian at its Best

08/10/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I heard him in NYC's Central Park in July and bought the CD. Emil Zrihan is a master of Judeo-Andalusian and Moroccan Jewish music. Andalusian "al Tarib" music dates to the Ninth Century Cordoban court of Emir Abdu Rahman lbn al Hakam. It is Hispanic-Maghreban in style. Born in Rabat in 1954, Emil Zrihan came to Israel in 1963 at the age of 9. After his arrival in Israel, he studied Piutim with Rabbi Shlomo Ouanounou and for 3 years he appeared in the "Folklore of the Orient" television program. In his youth, Mr. Zrihan was dubbed the "Israeli Joselito" in reference to great Spanish singer. With his unique vibrato voice, Mr. Zrihan has established a reputation of a great Cantor among the large public who frequents the Synagogues during the High Holidays. His many appearances both in Israel and in the world attract large attendance. The impressive vocal range on this CD and power of Zrihan's counter tenor express both the emotional intensity of North African religious song and the vivacity of Andalusian music. The guest of honour on this CD, Baldi Olier, adds the sensitivity tempered with pride of his guitar playing style, which stems from the purest of flamenco tradition. This extraordinary album is elegant, light, playful and invites the listeners to move and shake, to click their fingers, to clap their hands and inevitably, to dance."

Great, but not as good as live

The Riffman | Baltimore, MD | 08/30/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Zrihan must be seen in concert to truly appreciate his talent and artistry. I like the more traditional stuff more than the newer poppier stuff."

Beautiful and joyous

E. M. Rachim Baskin | Sea Girt, New Jersey | 12/29/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Virtuosity that energizes. Zrihan packs in so much enthusiasm,

I dare the listener not to feel joy."