Mike's Oud Forums

When the Soul is Settled: Music of Iraq

David Parfitt - 7-17-2006 at 01:10 AM

Just wanted to let everyone know about the fantastic new CD from Rahim al-Haj, "When the Soul is Settled: Music of Iraq" on the Smithsonian Folkways label. It is definitely one for the fans of the more 'traditional' kind of oud playing, and features nine taqasim on Iraqi maqamat, including two of my favourites - Mukhalif and Lami. Each taqsim is divided into a free and rhythmic part, and for the latter Rahim is joined by Souhail Kaspar on percussion.

I seriously recommend buying a copy of this CD. It should soon be available via the Smithsonian Folkways website (and other online stores), but in the meantime you can order a copy direct from Rahim by sending a cheque for $15 (plus $1 postage) to:

-------------------------------
Rahim Alhaj,
425 Glorieta St. NE,
Albuquerque, NM 87123,
USA
-------------------------------

Best wishes

David