Customer Reviews

1002 Nights

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An unusual but instantly identifiable sound, Ben Yelles fuses hypnotic rhythms with an almost achingly romantic electric violin sound. There is a sense of yearning in this music, but it doesn't get syrupy despite a "new age" overlay. It's been played on my folk/other radio show and is often used as a "bumper" or link music by NPR on their news programs. Sounds great late at night.

This 1996 album pointed the way to so many developments over the next decade and a half yet, apart from "She's Leaving Home" which features on a number of compilations, it remains an overlooked rarity.

One reason may be the instrument itself -- the electric violin seems give kiss of death to a lot of worthy projects, despite the brilliance of its exponents. It's an odd sound which irritates many listeners. On this recording, too, the tone is often thin and buzzy, lacking the richness heard on later recordings by this great artist.

The songs are also sometimes nervous and bitty, with effects created by bouncing the bow off the strings or pizzicato.

But Djamel Ben Yelles is a hypnotic performer who deserves much greater fame. This album is highly recommended to all!

Hauntingly beautiful CD. Has he published more albums? Djamal Ben Yelles (not 'Wellef') - we love you!

One of my favorite all-time bed-time albums. Like an instrumental "Dark Side of the Moon," or "Houses of the Holy," a beautiful blend of Middle Eastern spaciness. Where is the rest of his catalog????

This CD is wonderfully romantic & relaxing. It would go well with a jacuzzi bath with aromatic candles, especially with your lover. I usually listen to alternative rock & my boyfriend likes techno music, but this CD was provided in a hotel suite we stayed in, & we fell in love with it.