"I love the sound of Muwashshah music because it is the old music from many years ago before the orchestra accompanyment became popular. To me, large orchestras detract from the unique sound of Middle Eastern instruments. The vocalists of Ensemble Morkos are outstanding because their clarity of voices isn't muddled by a large chorus. If we can't have vocal harmonies in Arabic music, I'd rather listen to one voice than a chorus. Also thankfully absent in this CD is the use of echo which I find passe but apparently the Arabs are fond of. Too bad that the 30 second listening samples are not available here. I believe for the price, you will not be dissappointed you bought this CD without first listening to it."
Music of the Andalus
WA-EL ELSIN | Cupertino, CA | 04/20/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This CD has an outstanding collection of the best Andalusian music I've ever heard. The music is orchastrated on the Arabic maqam. Understanding the lyrics [in Arabic] is a plus, but not necessary to enjoy the music of a majestic erra in Arabic history, full of art, fantasy, and music."
Exquisitie arabic andalusian music
Tasha | USA | 02/16/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The beauty of arabic andalusian music is that it is so fully orchestrated. Sometimes, however, the songs become very plodding and dull. This is a remarkable exception. The performance and vocals are perfectly blended. There's not a redundant note on this CD. A must-have!"
Nice but not authentic Muwashahat
07/26/2002
(2 out of 5 stars)
"The authentic muwashshah is a combination of a great poem and melodic music supposed to bring the audience to the state of "Tarab". "Tarab" can not be explained by one English word and it is often described as the state of spiritual ecstasy where one departs from any surrounding sound or distraction and gets carried away by the music into a level of enjoyment unknown before. These musical compositions by the excellent Morkos ensemble are parts of muwashah and never a complete muwashshah that carries one to a state of "Tarab". Most compositions are shorter than three minutes and you barely get into the rethym before you move on into the next song in hasty manner. If you just want to know what a muwashshah is go ahead and buy the CD, but if you are a muwashshah fan this CD will leave you frustrated as a wasted opportunity."
A great CD of old Arabic Andalussian music
Tasha | 08/15/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I really enjoyed the music, the singing, and the wonderful sound. The only drawback is that the selections are too short. It would have packed a far greater punch had the intoxicating feeling known as TARAB been fully brought out by extended selections."