Wajdi CherifWajdi Cherif
Phrygian Istikhbar (2003)
Tunisian pianist and composer Wajdi Cherif released recently a new CD of acoustic Tunisian jazz recorded in Paris in autumn of 2002. The début CD, Phrygian Istikhbar, presents compositions by the pianist that reveals a refined taste in mixing jazz with ethnic sounds from Tunisia. "Voyage", the opening tilte, begins with a very soulful introduction played piano solo on Arabic modes and scales, soon followed by the other musicians that support the melodies and improvisations of percussion player Habib Samandi at the end of this composition.
"Blurred Vision" presents a bass solo that is in harmony with the fantastic Arabic rhythm played by Habib. Jeff Boudreau displays advanced drum skills during a solo on "Waiting For Paris". Phrygian Istikhbar also features Arabic percussion such as darbuka and bendir, played by the distinguished Tunisian percussion player Habib Samandi on "El Gasba" and "Phrygian Istikhbar," which is also the title of the CD. The CD is Available at www.cdbaby.com (international) and on www.Jazzvalley.com (Europe).
This CD is a real innovation in The world of ethnic jazz with a refined mixture that displays a real and deep immersion in both worlds... A real discovery. More information at www.wajdicherif.com.
World Music Central
http://worldmusiccentral.org/article.php/20030722111555194