Nar
SR, 2022
8/10
The vocalist and composer Christiane Karam finds herself in the company of Vadim Neselovskyi (piano), Naseem Alatrash (cello), Peter Slavov (bass) and Keita Ogawa (percussion) on this very diverse jazz listen that incorporates Middle Eastern influences and Balkan ideas.
The title track opens the listen with quivering percussion and much atmosphere as the warm strings guide the unique climate, and this creativity continues to the expressive singing of “Halla’ Fallayt”, where the elegant piano complements the gorgeous landscape.
Further on, “Beirut” meshes moody cello, thumping drums and Karam’s soaring pipes with much cultured energy, while “Peine” benefits greatly from the plucked bass amid stirring keys.
Nearing the end, “Farandole” moves with an upbeat, festive demeanor of playful vocal scatting, and the reprise version of “Nar” exits the listen introspective, sublime and with a striking beauty.
This is Karam’s 4th album but first with a quintet, and it’s her most developed yet, where a strong sense of artistry documents some recent tough times in her home country of Beirut, and finds itself in song craft that illustrates resilience, connection and the triumphant force of the human spirit.
Travels well with: Kristen Lee Sergeant- Falling; Alexis Cole- Sky Blossom: Songs From My Tour Of Duty