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Sample Track 1:
"Enpesare" from Haran (Oyhoo)
Sample Track 2:
"Ka Ribon" from Haran (Oyhoo)
Buy Recording:
Haran (Oyhoo)
Layer 2
CD Review

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RootsWorld, CD Review >>

Pharaoh's Daughter
Haran
Oy!Hoo Records (www.pharaoh'sdaughter.com)

It's a tricky balancing act, but Brooklyn-based
Pharaoh's Daughter manages a compelling mixture
of ancient Judaic musical motifs and modern
arrangements. The balance is further enhanced by
the eclecticism of bandleader/vocalist/oud and
saz player Basya Schechter, whose passion for
music that is equal parts psychedelic and
mystical handily meets her respect for subject
matter based on Jewish, Christian and Muslim
sources. Her love for such bands as the Doors and
Led Zeppelin is evident as well, though not to
the point where the music is overtly rock. The
prevailing sound is breezy and meditative. Most
songs ride on a light electronic sheen that gives
an array of acoustic instruments (violin, ney,
accordion, kamanche, kora, etc) the elbow room
they need. Strains of the Middle East, the
Mediterranean, North Africa and elsewhere come
into play, constructing a finely nuanced CD more
concerned with edifying mind, ear and spirit than
trying to impress with fusionist pretensions. - Tom Orr 08/15/07
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