"a seductive and serene album borne out of the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East" ---Billboard
 

In Middle Eastern and many other traditions, the weaving of a rug or kilim tells the story of a people or event. In this dynamic recording, Jamshied Sharifi explores and expands upon the music of his Iranian heritage, interweaving Middle Eastern melodies, West African rhythms and incandescent vocals from an international array of artists. Join Jamshied Sharifi, with guest artists such as Hassan Hakmoun, longtime Pat Metheny Group vocalist Pedro Aznar, Paula Cole, Zap Mama's Marie Afonso and Skuli Sverrisson , on this musical journey.

Since its release, "A Prayer for the Soul of Layla" has gathered extensive critical acclaim. It won Best Contemporary World Album of the Year in 1997 in the first annual New Age Voice Music Awards. It has also been named Best Contemporary Instrumental by critic and "Echoes" host John Diliberto.

So take a moment or two, and experience for yourself the beauty and power of "A Prayer for the Soul of Layla."

 

Featuring ....
Hassan Hakmoun: voice, sintir
 Paula Cole: voice
 Pedro Aznar: voice, bass
 Marie Alfonso: voice
 Mamak Khadem: voice
 Skuli Sverrisson: bass, ebow bass
 Simone Haggiag: talking drum, daf, udu
 Cyril Atef: qarqaba, sabar, zarb
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