Mesmerizing, Mystical, Modern
Dr. Debra Jan Bibel | Oakland, CA USA | 07/10/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Contemporary and traditional, electronic and acoustic, religious and artistic: this album of classical Iranian melodies, Sufi poetry, and recording wizardry is sung and arranged by Sussan Dyhim supported by musicians playing the Persian instruments of setar, zarb, daf, zarb, kamancheh, ney, tar plus cello, bass, Indian tabla, and violin. Overdubbing and self-harmonization of voice particularly produces an otherwordly, spiritual feeling without being New Age, though on the cusp. I like it! The music is deeper and more meditative than the similar modern group Niyaz. Sometimes the ensemble produces an airy gossamer, other times it is a strong rhythmic dance, like Sufi breathy repetitions and body movements. The album is moody and mesmerizing."