Rhythms of Tof Miriam

If, like me, you have a reptile-brain suspicion of recordings that bring together New Age sensibilities with world drums and ethnic flutes, then I heartily recommend you cast aside your prejudices and listen to Rhythms of Tof Miriam. Marla Leigh is a Grammy-nominated frame-drum virtuoso and this, her debut album, draws inspiration from the musical traditions of the Middle East.

The abiding atmosphere throughout is haunting and meditative, as ambient drones underpin free-flowing rhythms played on drums that seem to sing: listened to on headphones in the midst of lockdown, this evokes an other-worldly feeling of time standing still. You can tell something about a musician by the company they keep and the other performers on this recording – most notably the renowned Israeli oud and ney players Yair Dalal and Meira Segal – are world class. The recorded sound is beautifully balanced, combining both a crystal clarity that captures instrumental colour and suitably sensuous reverb. It's this attention to detail, craft and inspired musicianship that make Rhythms of Tof Miriam so much more than a cut above the usual tosh played in shops selling crystals and incense!