Mimi Spencer
is a well-known virtuoso in the musical world. Not only has she
played Kanoun and sung for many dancers,
she is appropriately acknowledged for her devotion and mastery
of ethnomusicology. Mimi has played with a variety of musicians,
many of which are virtuosos in their own musical talents. Mimi
is well known for her work with the band , Jazayer,
along with Vince
Delgado, Devija Croll and
guest musicians. This latest CD from Mimi is a solo performance
on the kanoun, with backup rhythm on
the riq by Vince Delgado, and acoustic
bass with Thomas Shader. Mimi
has taken well-known classical pieces from
Mimi takes well known classical Egyptian favorites such as “Ya Msaharni”, a song written for Umm Kulthum, and develops the richness that belongs in the music with the soul of the singer who inspired this song. Tutah, a well known Egyptian instrumental piece that has been overused in dance routines, is brought forth in it's entire complexity, with strong melodic phrases and calmer pacing than that which we have become used to. It's a pleasure to listen to musical instrumentation that has come from a musical background first and foremost, instead of adapting to a dancer's preference. The Kanoun is used as the main instrumentation throughout. The absence of using the traditional dumbek with it's heavy over-laying rhythms, brings a haunting, melodic phrasing to the music. The background rhythm of the riq, is in counterpoint to the arrangement, a holding solid base without overpowering the kanoun’s beauty. This is the first time I have heard an arrangement where the dumbek or tabla was not the ever-present heavy rhythm keeper, and it is a beautiful change. It renders each piece into a more flowing form of music. The third piece on the CD, called: “RIGHT WHERE I WANT TO BE” , composed and arranged by Mimi, is a wonderful blend of North Indian style phrasing. It begins with a mesmerizing, almost trance like beginning and moves into a joyful, somewhat jazzy rendition that reminded me of a waterfall rushing down a lush mountain.
In some of the pieces, the kanoun takes on a folkloric, beautifully lyrical drive, that sounds like harp and dulcimer music. I am partial to the Armenian pieces that Mimi has included in her repertoire. It is only a few musicians who can carry the distinct Armenian style of music, with it's variance in playing technique and stylization. From the perspective of a musician or dancer who recognizes these important differences in stylizing; it is a delight to hear these songs done from their countries of origin. This is a passionate CD. With it, you will enjoy exploring all the countries, regions, stylizing and personal signature of the talent of Mimi Spencer. There are pieces
that are a joy to dance with if a dancer is accomplished enough
to interpret and understand the nuances in non-cabaret styled
music. This music is a gift from the heart, carrying the passion
and dedication Mimi has given to the music world. The last piece
on the CD is from This
CD can be purchased through Vince's web site here: Have a comment? Send us a letter! Ready
for more? |
The
Gilded Serpent presents...
