Pomegranate Tiles

Dafarahn is an interesting pair of European musicians researching the art music of the Middle East. Francesco Iannuzzelli is an Italian guitarist who converted to the oud and Lucile Belliveau, who plays the double bass and describes herself as ‘a neuroscientist, musician, dancer, lover of arts and learning, human warmth and good food.’ The sound they make together is lush and beguiling, with the sumptuously recorded bass providing a rich cushion for the nimble oud. It must be said that the performances are patchy, with some delightful dreamy passages somewhat marred by other moments of uncertain ensemble playing, wayward rhythm and questionable intonation.

As yet, Dafarahn lack the effortless precision that distinguishes the finest Arab musicians; however, let's hope they persevere with their collaboration. Although the double bass is not a traditional instrument in Arab music, it really does work fantastically well with the oud and it's a combination that deserves deeper exploration.