Guest Author - Asmina
Guest contributor, R. O'neil Edwards offers his review of the CD "Persian and Middle Eastern Percussion" by Zarbang.
Review by R. O'neil Edwards:
Being a lover of traditional music from around the world, I was very excited to give this CD a listen.
Zarbang is an ensemble of Middle Eastern percussionists that was founded in 1996. The lineup has changed over the years but the concept and quality of music has not. Fusing the traditional Middle Eastern (predominantly Persian) rhythms with influences from around the world has always been Zarbang’s bread and butter. This album does not disappoint. Unlike many percussion based albums, there is never a feeling of repetition. "That drum solo" that every dancer seems to use is not present. Not only is each performance unique, but within each song, there is a sense of going on a journey. Rhythms vary and evolve constantly, the collective seeming to feed off the other. The drumming is outstanding yet subtle. No instrument is ever overpowered by any one drum.
Despite the "Percussion" in the title, this is not your typical "drum circle" type cd. Santoor’s and other instruments lesser known in the western world standout. Each member of the ensemble gets to shine on different selections. I’m not sure if this was recorded live, but it has a live feel that energizes the more upbeat tracks. The sounds feel layered more like the physical distance between players instead of the post-production layering of a mix down.
Persian and Middle Eastern Percussion will definitely appeal to Middle Eastern percussionists of all skill levels. It will especially be attractive to percussionists that drum for more than just dancers. The cabaret dancer will not likely find much useful for dancing but practitioners of folkloric styles of Middle Eastern dance less practiced in the US may find some useful tracks. A couple songs could be suitable to the innovative tribal dancer or troupe. Dancers of all types, looking for something that has not been overused may consider it as an alternative for intro music and playing between sets. If you are looking for the latest Egyptian pop collection, this will probably not work for you. However, if you are a listener or dancer seeking something different in Middle Eastern music or a percussionist looking for inspiration, this is well worth a listen.
