Brian Prunka - 6-11-2012 at 10:33 AM
Some of you will be pleased to know that Simon Shaheen is recording a new album, I was at the recording sessions over the past weekend and it's going
to be a great one!
Not sure the expected release date, but I expect late summer or early fall.
The main group is oud/violin (Shaheen), nay/buzuq (Bassam Saba), Peter Slavov (bass), Tareq Rantisi (percussion), Ali Amr (qanun), Naseem Al-Atrash
(cello).
ameer - 6-11-2012 at 11:28 AM
Very nice. I'm excited to hear it.
David Parfitt - 6-11-2012 at 11:36 AM
Very exciting news Brian, that is certainly something to look forward to!
Do you have any updates on Simon's possible taqsim CD or oud method that have been mentioned in the past?
All the best
David
Jono Oud N.Z - 6-11-2012 at 02:20 PM
Awesome!! 
Brian Prunka - 6-11-2012 at 05:25 PM
Regarding the oud method, I don't see it happening any time soon.
I don't want to speculate too much about the taqasim album, I talked to him about it but there's no definite date.
I wouldn't even mention this one if I didn't witness it in progress!
Jason - 6-12-2012 at 08:08 AM
Sounds good! So this will be more in the style of Blue Flame? I'm probably in the minority but I love that album.
Brian Prunka - 6-12-2012 at 09:40 AM
It is modern sounding, but not as "fusion"-y as Blue Flame, partly because of the more traditional instrumentation.
Of course it's not done yet, but my impression was that there will be more emphasis on the improvisations as well.
I think that it will appeal to the people who loved Blue Flame as well as those that preferred Turath.
I've been trying to convince him to do a traditional record with a vocalist, he seemed to be coming around to the idea last time we spoke about it.
amna.al.hawaj - 6-13-2012 at 01:14 AM
Great news! I can't wait to hear it.