Persiennes d’Iran

I’m often frustrated by the many talented female Iranian musicians, particularly instrumentalists, who don’t get the exposure and recognition they deserve, either in Iran or outside. So this debut album from the new Paris-based all-female group Atine is very welcome, and full marks to Accords Croisés for supporting the project. The tracks are mainly arrangements of songs from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with poetry by well-known figures such as Ali Akbar Sheyda and Aref Ghazvini. I particularly enjoyed the two instrumental pieces with their gorgeous textures and where the unusual combination of instruments, including viola da gamba, could be clearly heard. ‘Last Sunset’ is particularly striking.

The introductory sleeve notes are somewhat hyped-up and seem to focus more on saying what the music isn’t than what it is. I would have welcomed more information on, and biographies of, the musicians; but the lyric translations are useful. This is an interesting debut and a recommended listen, but the performances feel quite cautious. There’s clear potential and talent, though, and I look forward to hearing Atine gain in confidence and ambition as the groups develops its musical voice going forward.