"I want more of this band, much more." -- Global Rhythm
"A sound both hypnotic and charged." -- Washington Post
"Fuses Middle Eastern and Jewish sounds with a dark, indie pop sensibility." -- All Music Guide
Following Matisyahu's dramatic crossover from the Jewish market into the secular world, the most popular female New York Jewish musical artist is ready to break out! Haran features catchy songs that blend a Middle Eastern sound with contemporary hooks and a folk/pop mentality. Easy to dance to, it works for all audiences. Blending a psychedelic sensibility and a pan-Mediterranean sensuality, Basya Schechter leads her band through swirling Hasidic chants, Mizrachi and Sephardi folk-rock, and spiritual stylings filtered through percussion, flute, strings, and electronica. Her sound has been cultivated by her Hasidic music background and a series of trips to the Middle East, Africa, Israel, Egypt, Central Africa, Turkey, Kurdistan, and Greece. She has recorded four albums: three with Pharaoh's Daughter and one instrumental exploration with Persian santur player Alan Kushan. Over the past two years, Schechter was the recipient of numerous compositional and project grants from the New York State Council of the Arts, American Composers Forum, and American Music Center.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
sublime:
When this came on our local alternative station, WCBE, my ears perked straight up. What is THAT? I had never heard anything quite like it. I couldn't tell whether it was Arabic or Jewish (hallelujah and amen) and I had to dance while it was on, no question, in the midst of cleaning my kitchen. My pet cats and birds wondered what the deal was. When it was over I couldn't wait to hear what it was....Pharoah's Daughter? great name but still no clue, Arabic or Jewish, what's going on, is the Messiah here... more info
The best album I've heard in a very long time. Literally Grammy material:
This is the best album I've heard in a very long time. Despite its being a jewish album recorded in several languages, it will appeal to people of standard tastes. It is very hard to describe, as it is almost a new genre. Middle eastern world music with a jam band feel and the precision of classical? Neo-classical jewish middle eastern/latin fem psychedelic jazz? middle eastern rock/psychedelic spiritual jam band music performed by obsessive compulsive classically trained gypsies? I don't know what to call... more info
instantly rewarding:
Heard this outfit playing selections from Haran live on John Diliberto's Echoes as I drove home late last night. One of those groups whose sound makes an immediate great impression.
Superb!:
This highly anticipated release lives every bit up to expectations, and then some. With help from producer Fred Rubens, the album showcases the band's signature innovative Middle Eastern sound with modern-day grit and attitude. To be sure, the force of this album rests firmly on the foundation of Shechter's exquisite compositions. Still, it is the incredible musicianship of the band that makes this nothing short of a masterpiece. In addition to the earnest vocals of leader Basya Schechter and her oud and... more info
