Ghoyoum
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
This debut from the Toronto fusion duo, Kazdoura, i.e. Leen Hamo and John Abou Chacra, brings plenty of ideas to the template of Arabic Maqams that touches on both eastern and western ideas.
“Marhaba Ahlen” begins with scrappy drumming and plenty of eastern melodies that suit Hamo’s expressive singing, and “Ya Banat” follows with grooves and soulfulness surrounding the retro climate.
“Hmool El Safar” lands in the middle, and emits both mystery and style via the psychedelic stabs, while “Mili” radiates some jazz spirit thanks to the worldly rhythm.
Landing near the end, “Al Ain” uses soaring sax bouts and a firm beat for the album’s best, and “Killo Birooh” exits with upbeat instrumentation, playful percussion that radiates timelesness.
Kazdoura’s vision embraces groovy rhythms, psychedelia, and soulful aspects, and the heartfelt and personal delivery illuminated their Arab heritage with tremendous sophistication and adventurousness.
Travels well with: Arun Ramamurthy Trio- New Moon; Galeet Dardashti- Monajat