"Nahnou Houm" is the captivating second album from Jon Balke and his international ensemble Siwan, released on ECM Records in November 2017. This 47-minute journey is a testament to Balke's prowess as a Norwegian keyboardist, composer, and arranger, blending diverse musical traditions into a cohesive and enchanting whole.
The album features the powerful vocals of Mona Boutchebak, a talented singer from Algeria, who brings a unique perspective to the ensemble's sound. The tracklist includes eleven captivating pieces, each offering a unique blend of influences from Sufi mysticism, baroque music, and the Al-Andalus musical tradition. Standout tracks like "Duda," "Desmayar Se," and "ZemZemeh" showcase the group's ability to seamlessly weave together different cultural elements, creating a rich and immersive listening experience.
Siwan's debut album, released in 2009, garnered high acclaim and won prestigious awards, including the Jahrespreis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik. With "Nahnou Houm," Jon Balke and Siwan continue to push the boundaries of genre-blurring music, delivering an album that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you're a fan of jazz, world music, or simply appreciate beautifully crafted compositions, "Nahnou Houm" is sure to captivate and inspire.
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