Music of the Middle East

 

The John Berberian Ensemble - Music of the Middle East

released on LP [no date given]

John Berberian - oud

Hachig Kazarian - clarinet

Emin Gunduz - canun

Souren Baronian - clarinet, saxophone, bongos

John Valentine - guitar

Bob Tashjian - dumbeg & vocals

Chet Amsterdam - bass

Steve Pumilian - finger cymbals & dumbeg

From the liner notes by Peter Spargo:

In the last few years, there has been an accelerated growth in the popularity of music from the Middle East, and not only amongst those whose ancestors emigrated from this area. There are many in this country, whose backgrounds and cultures are completely dissimilar from those of the Middle East, who find this style of music highly original and complex rhythms very exciting.

There are numerous reasons for its popularity. The proximity of travel has brought many travelers closer to the culture of the Middle East. At first, the music might sound a little strident, but, eventually, the foreign ear finds it captivating and stimulating, principally attracted by their cogent use of complicated rhythms.

It is obvious that these unusual rhythms are beginning to find their way into American music, especially in the jazz idiom, for in the past decade, these Middle Eastern rhythms and harmonic structures have been a definite influence in modern jazz.

The principal reason for its growth in stature in this country is when it is performed by a consummate group of young musicians. John Berberian's ensemble is made up of youthful, articulate exponents of Middle East music, who also incorporate fresh new concepts into this exciting music.

John Bernerian is undoubtedly one of the finest artists on the oud. Not only are his solos breathtaking, but his support for the rest of the ensemble has an inner drive that keeps everything together and always moving. The repertoire is made up of some of the most popular melodies that are known throughout the Middle East, and in this country as well.

Tracklisting:

Side 1

1.  Dale Dale  {3:53}

2.  Hijazker Longa  {3:38}

3.  Chifte-Telli  {5:19}

4.  Nehevent Longa  {3:58}

Side2

1.   Oud Solo  {4:20}

2.  Gamavor Zimvor  {2:47}

3.  Tsamiko  {4:25}

4.  Samra Ya Samra  {7:10}
vocal by Bob Tashjian

(1) or (1)