In Review--Lose Yourself in Imagination

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Final CD Review
World 
Kevin Seddiki and Bijan Chemirani 
Imaginarium 
World Village 
 

Sometimes we need to lose ourselves in our imagination and often time music provides us this avenue as fodder for fantasy.  For anyone with the desire to escape to somewhere truly exotic, the percussionist and lute duo Kevin Seddiki (guitars and percussion) and Bijan Chemirani (saz (Iranian/Turkish long-neck lute, Persian/Arabic drums and percussion) provide the soundtrack on their CD, Imaginarium (try getting that word past spell check). The mix of music genres ranges from Persian classical with improvisations to Arab-Andalusian and classical guitar.  The guitars along with the drums/percussion provide snaky rhythms, but even so, the music leans towards revelry and not foot-tapping.
 

La Bohême takes us on a Spanish guitar flight in all its lushness and warmth.  On Saturn’s Rings has a distracting raspy vibration which I have a difficult time with, but the following track, Azur provides a meditative moment--heavy on melodic guitar with a light percussive framework.  Fans of classical Persian music will enjoy Sar Andjam and even though this is an instrumental piece, the musicians provide a similar intensity to Persian vocals--while building and releasing tension with the saz and drums.  Since I’m a fan of Persian classical, this track sounds welcoming to my ears.  However, my favorite song, A la belle étoile which features solo guitar has my mind floating in the clouds.  And while most of this recording features contemplative music, Cochichando reminds me of Brazilian folkloric music with its lilting and yes, danceable melodic groove.

  
Seddiki and Chemirani bring their musical chemistry and imagination to the 13 tracks that appear on Imaginarium.  And you’re in good hands since these musicians have collaborated on other recordings as well as, on the projects of renowned musicians in world, pop (Sting), classical, traditional, and jazz.  Set your mind free.



http://www.worldvillagemusic.com 


BTW, after 25+ years of reviewing musical recordings, this is my final CD review.  I will concentrate on articles and interviews with musicians, music therapists and sound healers from this point forward.

This will also be the final year of the Top Ten Recordings, which I will post later this month.




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