Anouar Brahem – Barzakh

"Phenomenal...this is pure Arabic music, without world music frills," Karl Lippegaus wrote in stereo

Brahem was supported here by Bechir Selmi, the sensitive violinist of the Music Ensemble of Tunis, and the percussionist Lassad Hosni, whose playing on the frame drum and Darbouka also became important components of later Brahem albums such as Conte de l'incroyable amour and Astrakan Café.

In addition to his improvisational brilliance, Barzakh also demonstrated Brahem's talent as a composer of gripping themes and melodies that shine from within - as can be heard here in pieces such as "Raf Raf", "Parfum de Gitane", "Kerkenah" and others.

"...a melodic and rhythmic power that simply excites. (...) "First-class sound, crisp-free pressing." (Audio, December 2017)

AllMusic rating: