"Rainbow: Music of Central Asia Vol. 8" is a captivating collaboration between the renowned Kronos Quartet and esteemed artists Alim & Fargana Qasimov and Homayun Sakhi. Released on March 30, 2010, under Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, this album is a beautiful fusion of minimalism and avant-garde genres, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes.
The album features six tracks, including interpretations of five popular songs from Azerbaijan and an original instrumental work based on traditional Afghan music. The arrangements for tracks 2-6 were commissioned specifically for this collaboration by the Aga Khan Music Initiative and the Columbia Foundation. The album was recorded in September 2008 at Livingston Studios in London, England.
A bonus DVD accompanies the CD, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind this unique collaboration. It includes a 24-minute film, an interactive glossary, and a map, providing an enriching experience for the audience.
"Rainbow" showcases the Kronos Quartet's commitment to cross-cultural music-making, knowing no international boundaries. This album is a testament to the centuries-old practice of sharing ideas and art in Central Asia, brought to life through the exceptional talents of the Kronos Quartet, Alim & Fargana Qasimov, and Homayun Sakhi.