COMPOSERS: Shams
LABELS: Sound of World
PERFORMER: Shams
CATALOGUE NO: SW 103
Shams presents its versions of Afghan semi-classical and folk music from the vantage point of emigration. Even before the Taliban forced active musicians to play abroad, the situation was complex because the same multitude of ethnic traditions that give rise to interminable military conflict are responsible for a bewildering number of styles influenced by the range of neighbouring cultures.
With a core membership of voices, the plucked rabab, tabla and harmonium, Shams reflects Afghanistan’s diversity with quietly compelling accomplishment. The majority of pieces face towards central Asia or the Middle East, but two strongly Indian-flavoured tracks provide balance.