Songs Of Desire
Tzadik, 2026
9/10
An 8 piece ensemble fronted by vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Basya Schechter, Pharaoh’s Daughter bring their ‘world folk-rock’ ways to these 12 globally textured tracks.
“Asleep” opens with soulful singing and warm oud in the melodic and rich climate, and “Domeh” follows with harmonic vocal and Yuval Lion’s animated drumming that complements the busy texturing.
“De Noche” arrives near the middle and is a calm moment initially before the expressive singing welcomes flutes and no lack of rhythm, while “Lebanon” injects Meg Okura’s meticulous violin and dynamic guitars to the festive album highlight that just begs to soundtrack the dance floor.
Arriving late, “Brach Dodi” is an intimate moment of sublime dreaminess where Schechter’s lovely voice shines amid David Buchbinder’s cozy trumpet, and “Sheyne” exits with a soft and bare spirit that’s heartfelt.
There’s so many different instruments present here, and they illuminate a very authentic blend of asidic chants, Mizrahi/Sephardi folk-rock, and Middle Eastern grooves that surrounds psychedelic, electronic, and baroque influences for a really fun and enlightening listen.
Travels well with: Divahn- Shalhevet; Galeet Dardashti- Monajat