Search - Pouya Mahmoodi :: Mehr

Mehr
Pouya Mahmoodi
Mehr
Genres: International Music, Pop, Rock
 
  •  Track Listings (11) - Disc #1

Iranian guitarist Pouya Mahmoodi put his music online and found an early fan in drummer Billy Cobham, who ended up contributing work to two tracks here, including the stunning opener, Si Pareh, where Mahmoodi puts a tune t...  more »

     
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CD Details

All Artists: Pouya Mahmoodi
Title: Mehr
Members Wishing: 0
Total Copies: 0
Label: Faryaad Records
Original Release Date: 1/1/2008
Re-Release Date: 2/19/2008
Genres: International Music, Pop, Rock
Style:
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 634479687815

Synopsis

Album Description
Iranian guitarist Pouya Mahmoodi put his music online and found an early fan in drummer Billy Cobham, who ended up contributing work to two tracks here, including the stunning opener, Si Pareh, where Mahmoodi puts a tune to words by legendary Persian poet Rumi. It's a marvelous piece of work that easily straddles genres - a little soft rock, some singer/songwriter, a hint of jazz, and a brief guitar solo that could be a low-volume Jimmy Page, all with a high level of intensity and lyricism (and the kind of guitar playing that would have lesser mortals chopping off their wrists). In a way it sums up the entire disc, where Mahmoodi mixes his Iranian roots with different Western styles (predominantly jazz, but also some blues) to create a loving, melodic hybrid that manages to sound both familiar and exotic. He has a good enough band, and the programming is used with a light touch (he's also a reasonable, if not scintillating, singer). Above all, it's the guitar work that captures the ear - light, tasty, and with a sense of roots and adventure. Apart from the opener, the highlight may well be Me Va To, a Middle Eastern blues that seems to owe more to West Africa than it does to America, but with enough modal tinkering to keep things nicely off balance. Mehr marks the debut of a major talent. -Chris Nickson/All Music Guide

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CD Reviews

An enriching, soulful compilation
Midwest Book Review | Oregon, WI USA | 03/05/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mehr is the debut solo album of Tehran-born guitarist Pouya Mahmoodi, also featuring the drum track work of jazz and rock drummer Billy Cobham on two songs. A flourishing showcase of Iranian underground music, Mehr blends elements of East and West into an original guitar synthesis, delving into Persian tradition and touching upon melodies played on wind instruments as well as other lesser-known aspects of Iranian culture. Two songs on Mehr have their roots in zaar, a complex musical rite with origins in Ethiopia and Somalia that is still practiced today in southeastern Iran. The songs of Mehr embrace love in all its forms, from romantic to intimate to abiding spiritual love. An enriching, soulful compilation enthusiastically recommended for connoisseurs of international music."
Exotica
JC | MD USA | 07/17/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"A uniquely eclectic blend of styles and influences are hinted at on this very diverse (yet cohesive) project, which could serve as an ethnomusicologist's quiz if it didn't swing, groove, and (occasionally) rock so much (it's far from academic).



There's some standout guitar playing encompassing a range perhaps along the lines of the work (and abilities) of someone like Ry Cooder, but within a (mostly) Middle Eastern context. The bass work is also outstanding. Billy Cobham does appear as noted, but in an ensemble sense that doesn't necessarily highlight his presence.



Of his place yet beyond it... Apparently there's a lot of absorbing music going on somewhere in Iran. I generally agree with the other two reviews here, which give a good view into this disc.

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