"Leyla et Majnûn" is a captivating orchestral journey composed by Armand Amar, released on January 1, 2014, under the Long Distance label. This Sufi-inspired masterpiece spans 9 tracks and 85 minutes, weaving together classical strings and a rich tapestry of global instruments, including the haunting sounds of the doudouk. Armand Amar, renowned for his film scores, brings his cinematic prowess to this evocative album, which was originally performed live at the Salle Pleyel in Paris.
The album tells the timeless tale of Majnûn and Leylâ, a love story of intense, absolute passion. Each track represents a different valley or stage in their journey, from desire and conquest to solitude, perplexity, and ultimately, annihilation. The piece culminates in a profound exploration of unity and the human condition. Featuring collaborations with talented vocalists and instrumentalists such as Nacer Kemir, Salar Aguili, Ariana Vafadari, and Naziha Meftah, "Leyla et Majnûn" is a mesmerizing blend of Eastern and Western musical traditions, offering a unique and immersive listening experience.