Though the album is labeled as specifically Lebanese, much Middle Eastern music, when played in an orchestral form, can sound strikingly similar. This is absolutely the case with Andr Hajj's debut release on ARC. His oud playing is remarkable, and the qanun from David Atme carries the album for extended periods of interest. Despite that, with the basic Middle Eastern beats and the basic tabla/darbukka drumming of Raymond Hajj, the sound becomes similar to much of the other instrumental music of the region. Though the individuality of the recording may be relatively lacking, it is a fine recording. Where many other artists tend toward the use of Middle Eastern music as a basis for fusion rather than perfecting the traditional formats, Hajj holds the music lovingly, makes it his own, then carefully places it in front of the listener. The touches of Lebanon are subtle, placed in contrast to the larger structures of maqam, but the band treats the music well. Worth a listen for interested newcomers to Middle Eastern music who want something different than contemporary bellydance. ~ Adam Greenberg
