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Refuge

Refuge

SKU: CD44388 Barcode: 0061297687626
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Format: CD / Album

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  • Released Date: 20 Mar 2020

  • Genre: Jazz

Our Take

Sultans of String's latest offering, "Refuge," is a melting pot of musical styles and influences that somehow come together in a way that is both enchanting and baffling. The album kicks off with a fusion of traditional Middle Eastern instruments and contemporary pop beats, setting the stage for a wild ride that never quite settles into any one genre.

Tracks like "Baba," with its infectious rhythms and haunting melodies, transport listeners to a mystical world where East meets West in a swirling whirlwind of sound. The seamless blending of Turkish oud, Celtic fiddle, and Spanish guitar creates a sonic tapestry that is as unique as it is mesmerizing.

However, just as you start to get comfortable with the exotic soundscape, Sultans of String throw in a curveball with tracks like "Gardens of Sampson & Beasley," which veers dangerously close to elevator music territory. The juxtaposition of sublime beauty and cringe-worthy cheesiness is a risky move that pays off in some respects but falls flat in others.

Overall, "Refuge" is a bold and daring exploration of music without borders that is sure to appeal to fans of world music and adventurous listeners alike. While not every track hits the mark, Sultans of String deserve credit for their ambition and willingness to take risks in pursuit of a truly unique sound. So grab your passport and embark on a musical journey that is equal parts exhilarating and perplexing.

Track Listing

Disc: 1
1. The Power of the Land
2. El Bint El Shalabeya
3. Hurricane
4. I Am a Refugee
5. Ojhri Camp
6. Refuge
7. I'm Free
8. Imad's Dream
9. Weather Update
10. Summer in Tehranto
11. Asi Soy (This Is Me)
12. The Grand Bazaar
13. Hypnotica

Delivery & Returns

Delivery 

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For orders back in stock soon, we expect to receive more stock within a week and will dispatch your order as soon as the stock has arrived.

Returns

We’re happy to accept returns for unwanted items provided that they’re returned within 14 days of receipt, unopened, unused and in perfect condition.

About the artist

Sultans of String

Sultans of String are a Toronto-based powerhouse of musical fusion, blending together Celtic reels, Flamenco rhythms, Gypsy-jazz grooves, and East Coast sea shanties into a unique and infectious sound that defies categorisation. Led by the charismatic and multi-talented duo of Chris McKhool and Kevin Laliberté, the band has been making waves in the Canadian music scene since their formation in 2007. Their live shows are a sight to behold, with McKhool's virtuosic violin playing and Laliberté's lightning-fast guitar work intertwining in a whirlwind of sound and energy that never fails to get audiences on their feet. But what sets Sultans of String apart from other world music acts is their unwavering commitment to social and environmental causes, using their music as a vehicle for activism and change. Their latest album, "Refuge," is a testament to this ethos, with songs inspired by refugees and immigrants from around the world, celebrating the diversity and resilience of the human spirit. The album has been hailed as a triumph of empathy and understanding, showcasing the band's ability to weave together disparate musical traditions into a cohesive and deeply moving listening experience. In a music industry increasingly dominated by trends and algorithms, Sultans of String stand out as a beacon of creativity and authenticity, reminding us of the power of music to unite and inspire. With their infectious energy, virtuosic musicianship, and commitment to social justice, Sultans of String are a band that truly defies categorisation, bringing together the best of world music in a joyous and life-affirming celebration of the global community.

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