Attab Haddad Ensemble - Days Distinctive

Outstanding Oud player Attab Haddad blends Flamenco, Jazz and Middle Eastern influences to create an evocative and magnetic new music. This stunning album documents an incredible musical journey and will be loved by world and jazz music listeners alike.Drawing on firm roots in Middle Eastern music and Flamenco, Haddad's compositions take listeners on a journey through Andalusia and the Middle East, conveying a sonic experience that can only be described as his own. His ensemble features some of the UK's finest musicians, including flautist Philippe Barnes, cellists Ben Davis and Naomi Wright, double bassist Matt Ridley, and percussionist Vasilis Sarikis.Written and produced by Haddad, 'Days Distinctive' illuminates the Oud's versatility outside its traditional role. His players are cast across a diverse musical landscape including Flamenco, Jazz, Middle Eastern and Contemporary music, naturally combined as a modern evolution of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern instrumental music. Improvisation is of central importance - against a backdrop of Middle Eastern Maqams (modes) and Flamenco rhythms, a prevailing Jazz ethos allows each musician a great deal of freedom. The result is fresh, accessible and appeals to a wide musical audience.Haddad has featured on BBC Radio 3, Radio 6, Radio Scotland and Resonance FM. He has performed with much acclaim in the UK, Europe, USA, Middle East and India. In 2010 he was the subject of a major documentary on Arabic TV Channel AL-Fayhaa highlighting his innovative approach to the Oud.Personnel: Attab Haddad (oud/palmas), Philippe Barnes (flute), Matt Ridley (double bass), Naomi Wright, Ben Davis (cello), Vasilis Sarikis (percussion/voice), Fanar Haddad (Khishbah), Ramon Ruiz (Flamenco guitar), Genevieve Wilkins (cajon/percussion/palmas), Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin), Kit Downes (piano)