Sultans Of String - Yalla Yalla!

This sophomore album weaves a truly global sonic tapestry, influenced by Spanish Flamenco, Arabic folk, Cuban rhythms, jazz, classical and French Manouche Gypsy-jazz music!From the driving and spirited title track (Arabic for Come on! Let's go!), to the soaring musical tributes of Sable Island, Auyuittuq Sunrise, Gardens of Lebanon, to the sweet yearning of Le Bisou (The Kiss), Yalla Yalla! is a riveting musical adventure, seamlessly traversing diverse themes of heart, place and tradition. Fiery violin dances with kinetic guitar while a funk bass lays down unstoppable grooves. A full Cuban trumpet ensemble gets in on the fun, offering up an exhilarating and new texture to the band. Throughout, acoustic strings meet electronic wizardry to create layers and depth of sound.McKhool's passion for exploring the rhythms and melodies has led him to the far corners of the world, incorporating instruments and styles everywhere he went. Canada's ambassadors of musical diversity Sultans of String includes six-string violinist Chris McKhool (who has guest starred with Jesse Cook and Pavlo), duelling guitar wizards Kevin Lalibert� (The Chieftains, Jesse Cook) and Eddie Paton (Robert Michaels, Johannes Linstead), bass master Drew Birston (Chantal Kreviazuk, Amanda Martinez) and the jaw dropping talent of Cuban percussionist, Chendy Leon!Special Guests include a who's who of the Canadian world music scene including:George Gao (erhu), Jordan Klapman (piano), David Woodhead (bass), Bassam Bishara (oud), Andrew Collins (mandolin), Maryem Tollar (vocals), Cuban Trumpet Ensemble and more.The music is sublime yet is subtle, powerful and emotive. The compositions are stunning as is the playing! � Peter Merrett, PBS 106.7 FM Melbourne Australia.