Iran: Classical Singing

While the voice of singer Mohammad Motamedi makes up an integral element of this release, the album also highlights the brilliance of five other virtuosi from a new generation of Iranian musicians: Jahanabadi on kamancheh (spike fiddle), Mirzapour on tar (long-necked lute), Hanjani on ney (flute), Rahimi on tombak (goblet drum) and Rezayinia on daf and dayereh (frame drums). Working within the framework of the radif – the standard repertoire of scales, modes, and passages central to classical Persian music - they present 15 tracks showcasing the myriad forms, flavours, and faces of the music.

As is customary with the avaz (singing) tradition, poetry sets the tone for many of the songs. Here, the verses of medieval poets such as Baba Taher and Saadi, as well as a few more contemporary ones are given new life through Motamedi's impassioned vocal inflections, which provide beautiful contrasts to the delicacy of the lush instrumentation. The album also has its more contemplative moments in various solo pieces, one of which serves as a tribute to the late Hassan Kassai. The various moods and sentiments transport you to an evocative Persia of nightingales, roses, and pleasure gardens.