Doux Zen (Slow/Sweet Zen)

Charbel Rouhana, “Doux Zen” (Sweet or Soft Zen)
(Forward Music 2010) – ALL TRACKS FCC CLEAN
Reviewed by Abu Ramses

Charbel Rouhana (from Lebanon) is one of the most innovative oud players and composers in the Arab world today. After playing number 2 oud with Marcel Khalife for years (on the Jadal album and others), Charbel struck out on his own. He is the principal oudist and composer of all the pieces. Elie Khoury is the second oudist. All tracks are instrumental with a romantic, peaceful and transcendent quality. Intricate compositions and virtuoso playing. Every one is a gem.

Tracks

****1. Doux Zen - delicate interweaving of the 2 oud lines; mid-to up-tempo - 4:58
2. Before Tuning - You can hear the connection between the Middle Eastern oud and Spanish Flamenco guitar on this one - 6:14
3. Kermelon – Very intricate, melodic, - 5:58
***4. Retour – Opens with a beautiful solo; then up-tempo duet - 7:13
5. Hakaya (Story) – Up-beat. The two ouds have a totally modern guitar-like sound - 5:52
6. Missing You – Up-beat opening; traditional drone in the middle; weaves back and forth between traditional and modernist sound - 6:52
**7. Basma (Smile) – Explosive opening, mostly allegro - 3:53