Customer Reviews

Home Again

5 star:		(3)
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I find this recording very satisfying to listen to, akin to classical guitar solists but with the different sound of the oud, some what similar to the difference between the chello and earlier viola in sound. But of course this is middle eastern music with different modalities and style very well done.

This is the most recent of Alhaj's CD (released after his Grammy nomination for best World Music CD) and is a beautiful and unique musical story of his first trip back to Baghdad, Iraq after 13 years in exile. His contemporary compositions, rooted in traditional Iraqi rhythms and modes show a masterly ability to communicate a wide range of emotions and moods including deep connection to his mother (Closeness), sorrow for American pain and loss after 9-11 (Gray Morning), horror at a close cousin's death in Iraq (Qassim), Compassion for all living beings modeled on Far Eastern styling, Tango rhythm and connection to a new favorite tree in a new homeland (Oak) and cowboy blues combined with Oriental structure (Baghdad, New Mexico). As always, I found myself whisked away by the power and intimacy of his music. Rahim's very personal liner notes about each composition and personal story add a special touch.

Rahim Alhaj is a very gifted musician and composer. I had the great thrill of experiencing his music live in concert and had to buy his albums. Intricate, soulful and passionate music that I found very inspiring and moving. One moment you feel the tears of compassion welling up in your eyes...another, you can't sit still because you want to dance all night !! If Rahim Alhaj and Souhail Kaspar (extremely talented percussionist) are ever playing in your area - GO - don't miss it. Their talents remind us how ART and MUSIC transcends all boundaries, politics, and prejudices....and beautifully unites us all !!