Luxor to Isna

The Musicians of the Nile are a professional troupe of gypsy musicians hailing from Upper Egypt. Their dazzling mix of traditional songs is perfectly showcased on this early Real World release, which was taped in both France and England during the late '80s. With the dusky strains from the rababah (traditional fiddle), the mizmar (an oboe-like instrument), and the tablah (a hand drum similar to the darbouka) filling the air, the group delivers an array of trance-inducing long-players, including ensemble pieces as well as solo spotlights like the tablah feature "Zahrafat Al Sa'id" (Rejoicing in Upper Egypt) and the arghul (double-reed clarinet) vehicle "Kol Elle Qalboh Ankawa" (Everyone Has Had a Broken Heart). An essential disc for world music connoisseurs.