Simin Tander: Wagma (2011)

C. MICHAEL BAILEY,

C. Michael Bailey

Senior Contributor since 1997

...wants to know if Gene Harris is playing "Summertime" in Heaven...

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Published: June 16, 2011

Track review of "Becoming"

Simin Tander is a polyglot German-Afghan singer who combines the fierce creativity of Meredith Monk with the jazz savvy of Gretchen Parlato. She has surrounded herself with a like-minded trio that is willing to forge in whatever direction she desires, with music and singing full of wordless howls, purrs, and calls. This is multicultural music with a German edge and the rugged and untamed spirit of Afghanistan.

"Becoming" is a composition in English that begins like Thelonious Monk meeting Edith Piaf for an absinthe parfait and a cool glass of Château d'Yquem. There are frank elements of hip-hop sprinkled with Tander's assertive vocalizations. Pianist Jeroen van Vliet echoes John Escreet's angular stance while never losing the swing. Tander's lyrics are of a probing conscience looking for release.

Personnel: Simin Tander: vocals; Jeroen van Vliet: piano and electronics; Etienne Nillesen: drums; Cord Heineking: bass.

Record Label: Neuklang Records