idlero In 1990, desiring to concentrate on his career, Tunisian oud virtuoso Anouar Brahem sent a demo tape to ECM ( rather unusual procedure for ECM but for him it worked) and the rest is history... In 1991 ECM released his first album, 'Barzakh' that started his international career and his longtime collaboration with this label - 9 albums( 8 originals and one compilation) released until today as a leader. 'Barzakh' was recorded together with Tunisian percussionist Lassad Hosni(bendir and darbouka) and violinist Bechir Selmi. All compositions are written by Brahem, except for 'Barzakh' (Brahem and Selmi) and 'Souga' and 'Bou Naouara' (Hosni). Going from the more slow, reflective 'Sadir' to the more upbeat 'Ronda', the album is a collection of 13 Middle Eastern melodies, focusing mostly on Anouar Brahen's solo oud playing . My favourite tracks are 'Kerkenah' which has a hypnotic beauty and the splendid 'Parfume De Gitane' in which we get to hear all three players and which can be heard also on 'Astrakan Cafe'( personally I prefer the 'Astrakan' version) As usual with ECM , great sound quality. Giving us a first glimpse into the magic world of Anouar Brahem's music, 'Barzakh' is a good place to start listening to his music , recommended especially to world music fans ( especially arabic music and rhytms).