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review by Michael Debbage The Middle East has seen more than its fair share of turmoil. What a pleasure it is to introduce this up and coming musical artist Zade from the exotic land of Jordan. Blending Eastern Arabic mysticism with his commercially appealing western classic roots, Zade's musical style is inspirational and clearly a defining style that makes Zade so unique and appealing. Zade Dirani is a composing pianist that even at the young age of 22 years old is already showing great depth and imagination of a veteran. While Zade made a name for himself as early as 17 years old in his home country, exposure was extended beyond his native shores in 2001 when he was appointed by King Abdullah of Jordan to join him on the official state visit to the United Kingdom. It was then that he performed for Queen Elizabeth and since then his hard work of concert appearances both on small and a large scale paid off. The exposure resulted in both a friendship and working relationship with the zenith producer, Will Ackerman, founder of Windham Hill Records. Not only does Ackerman provide his technical expertise as a producer but he also lends a hand musically on "Zaina" and "Mama's Song." Despite this healthy endorsement, the album is not about Ackerman but about Zade, a warm and sensitive artist willing to share his musical and cultural worlds in a way that a western audience will understand and appreciate. Musically, the percussion work is distinctively Middle Eastern, as is much of the limited vocal chanting that brings a magical and mysterious layer to the world of Zade. This is assisted by the unusual instrumentation of the kanoon, tar, rig, tablah and hopi drum to name just a few. Alongside the guitar work of the previously mentioned Ackerman and the violin work of Charlie Bisharat throughout the album, the project has the distinct pleasure of bridging the gap between the eastern and western worlds. While Zade is classically trained, those of you expecting a soothing sound may want to adjust your expectations before inviting yourself to this musical banquet. Though the melodies are distinctive, Zade has ventured away from the grand piano sound, choosing what sounds like an upright piano giving it an almost saloon or plucked sound. While the resonance compares somewhat to Yanni, it is still Zade's own peculiar musical trademark that separates him from others. With ten of the twelve compositions self-composed, Zade makes the unusual decision of opening the track with a 1979 cover that is layered in numinous instrumentation with Bisharat adding the western touch with his violin work. Then again, perhaps it was an intentional move by Zade to say "Here I am, take me as I am." This upbeat track is countered with the somber and reflective "Ode To Mediterranean" that includes some gorgeous subdued but graceful piano strokes, embellishment with just the right amount of reflective cello to make this another stirring experience. In fact, the pace does not return until track 5, courtesy of the chanting "Zaina" that radiates the sounds of his homeland, Jordan. United Airlines is advertising that its time to fly again. Don't bother. "Zaina" can take you there right now, this very moment, free; just open your ears and [listen]. The provocative percussion and unusual chanting is countered by Bisharat's smooth violin. Great stuff as the song pulsates with rhythm and soul. One of the more bittersweet moments is the tranquil "Beauty Of Her Soul" that features Zade alone on the piano. Though a timely moment, the bareness of the song would have prevailed better on deep grand piano. Still, a very reflective moment that is also matched by the naked closing track "Princess Lullaby." This debut album is very impressive as Zade shows great flexibility by countering somber and reflective pieces with well-paced pulsating celebrations of life. However, this is more than just about a rising star showing us his musical strength and prowess. It also appears to reflect an artist wanting to share the very core of his being. This appears to be about an ambassador of Jordan wanting to express to the western world that this is who he and his culture is all about which is in complete contradiction to what the media is currently focusing on. And from both perspectives, this makes the debut an utter success. |
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