The Shadow Band
Iridium, 2025
8/10
An Arabic Free Groove quartet, The Shadow Band integrate improvisation into their odes to liberation and resistance, where these 21 tracks don’t sit in one place too long.
“Wahed” opens with Tarik ‘Excentrik’ Kazaleh’s warm guitar alongside Naima Shalhoub’s expressive voice and much atmosphere, and it isn’t long until “Khamsa” showcases Aaron Kierbel’s thumping drums amid the dreamy mood and soft ambience.
Further along, “Tamaniyyah” comes with a laidback appeal thanks to Chris Trinidad’s intricate bass, while “Talatatashr” offers a fuller moment via Shalhoub’s frisky keys and the meticulous rhythm section.
Residing close to the end, “Tamantashr” enlists Kazaleh’s quick oud skills amid the rhythmic backdrop, and “Wahad wa ‘Ashreen” exits with a dance floor ready bout of melodic, cultured songwriting that carries an infectious energy.
An enlightening effort that draws from Arab-Futurism, Arabic Taksim, Free Jazz, and Dub, the quartet bring a wealth of talent and experience to these tracks that were fleshed out in just one evening.
Travels well with: Red Fast Triple Luck; Francis Wong- Wong Works