Fertile Paradoxes

Tunisian brothers Amine and Hamza M’raihi are masters of the oud and kanun (kind of like a Middle Eastern zither), both are major instruments in Arabic classical music. This is an exploration of global harmony through the addition of everything from a south Indian frame drum to a full chamber orchestra. An interesting and unpredictable mix that has elements of jazz, flamenco, Arabic music, and Indian ragas. Some tracks include vocals. Wonderful guest stars make up
“The Band Beyond Borders.” Tracks feature many variations of mood and tempo, starting off one way & then wandering in another. Tight arrangements, top-notch playing, great interplays. It’s all good, just pick one. You won’t be able to predict where it will go.

1. Slow and lyrical then picks up at about 2:00 w/Indian vocals. Great drumming and strings. A really lovely journey.
2. Trilling strings, Celtic-esque w/ tabla. Great interplay of instrument
3. Dreamy then an uptempo jazz-infused jam. Seriously good playing.
4. Delicate chamber strings ‘til about 3:00 then a playful & bright mix.
5.Relaxed layers of strings. Gets fast & lively with an almost bluegrass feel. So good!
6. Sweet & swaying low-key, klezmer-ish then full into a busy Arabic jam w/great playing from all. Then relaxed again, then…
7. Slow cello opens, mostly midtempo w/ a cinematic feeling. Sharp blend of strings, some flaminco palmas. Nice arrangement.
8. Midtempo Arabic-jazz sound, then the tabla perks things up and it gets moving.