Shakkur is one of the great vocalists of the Muslim Sufi mystical tradition, working in a tradition with Turkish and Byzantine elements that descends unbroken from the Middle Ages. This recording is largely devoted to two examples of the extended vocal suite with instrumental interludes called a wasla, with a couple of shorter pieces. The instrumental work stresses the nay flute, and to a lesser extent the qanun dulcimer. In the last few months
Shakkur has popped up on a number of French labels, so he risks acquiring Usual Suspect status, but that may just be because he's been on a European tour. (61:09) ~ John Storm Roberts