This album is a gem.
J. Farraj | New York | 12/27/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The musicians are excellent technically, each one performs a short solo to show both the beauty and richness of their instrument, as well as their virtuosity. You can clearly see the years of experience they have put in. The riq solo was a treat, considering it's rare to hear a recorded track devoted to that instrument.
The repertoire is classical Arabic and Tunisian, all instrumental. I really like the Samai Bayati composed by Slah El Manaa himself. The repertoire is rich in maqams (Arabic scales) and modulations.
But most of all the strength of this album is in the arrangement, the delicate balance between instruments, the subtlety, minimalism and attention to detail that is so typical of the Tunisian aesthetic.
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