Dismantling lyrics, melodies and compositions from Yemeni folk songs, El Khat delve into uncharted sonic territory updating Yemen's ancient culture. Using an orchestra of instruments old and new, many repurposed from junk objects and turned into instruments that sound similar to traditional Arabic and North African lutes and percussion, Tel Aviv based El Khat have imagined an indelible stamp of polyphonic, harmony soaked, pan-Arabic braindance. You can pick out certain influences such as Omar Souleyman and dabkefolk characterised by trance-inducing chants (Wahed Mozawej), the searing Ethiopique organ of Mulatu Astatke (Ala Jina Nuhayiykum), and the unashamedly sing-along choruses of Bowie or McCartney (Balagh Al Achbaab).
Tracks:
1. Ya Raiyat 4:45
2. Ptiha 2:09
3. Balagh Al Achbaab 4:50
4. Atabina - Part I 4:30
5. Ala Jina Nuhayiykum 5:59
6. Atabina - Part II 4:20
7. Wahed Mozawej 7:02
8. Munajimin 5:15
9. Al Ard' Amamak 7:04
10. Daasa 4:26
11. Marhaban Ahlan 6:32
12. Al Ard' Amamak - Part II 1:15
