Anouar Brahem: Thimar

There's a focused intensity in the performance of these compositions. The pieces are complex and varied, with long meditative out-of-tempo solos turning into fast and exhilarating ensembles. It can be difficult to determine where arrangement ends and improvisation begins, since these three masters have all reached a point where adding to the mix comes spontaneously. Sometimes the results sound close to the music of Brahem's native Tunisia, and at others they have a late-night urban quality, everyone gone to bed except the musicians in their recording studio. Whatever this uncategorizable music is, it's fresh and beautiful, as the instrumental combination of horn, oud and bass both touches many traditions and stands uncaptured by any. The wide ranging expression and beautiful production ensure that this recording will stand up to repeated listening.

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