Originally released in 1971. This features Hamza El Din on oud (like a lute) and vocals. El Din was born in 1929 in an area of Nubia now underwater from the Aswan dam. The title track is 21-minutes long and recreates the work of the water wheel, complete with creaking as it starts up and then a hypnotic flow. It’s relaxing and low-key, but don’t underestimate it. El Din has tremendous skill and power and uses various techniques to create a sense of place that transports you. Amazing stuff!

*1. A water-wheel opera. At times slow, at times fluid (like water). His soaring vocals and amazing technique on the strings is a captivating and fascinating performance.
*2. The oud as guitar. Melodic, varying tempos, wonderfully intricate playing. An Egyptian, as opposed to Nubian composition. Almost flamenco at times. You can get lost in this one.
*3. A tar (frame drum) leads into vocals. This one’s too short! Joyful, relaxed, happy.
9/2003