Uncovered

Description

The new album from the international psychedelic collective Al-Qasar, *Uncovered*, is a breathtaking side-project featuring covers of both Western and Arab repertoires, as well as original compositions. The album was recorded between Paris, Bamako, Tunis, and Lisbon. They say nothing beats the original. But when the band tackles a Depeche Mode classic like "Personal Jesus," you know you're in for an unparalleled transcontinental journey. The lyrics are in Turkish, and the iconic riffs are played on an electric saz. The cast is stunning, with studio wizard Thomas Attar on production, guitar, and saz, Turkish artist Sibel on vocals, and mixing by Grammy Award-winning Matt Hyde (Slayer, Deftones). "Promises" is an Afro-futuristic heavy-psych track in Bambara, taking us from the Mojave Desert to the Sahel. It features Malian singer Mamani Keita (Salif Keita) on lead vocals and the famous "Black Buddah" Cheick Tidiane Seck (Gorillaz, Black Eyed Peas, Santana) on keyboards and backing vocals. Mamani Keita addresses the theme of commitment, criticizing corrupt political leaders who don't keep their promises, while Cheick unleashes brain-melting keyboard lines and deep, enchanting vocals. On drums, Souleymane Ibrahim (from the Tuareg band Mdou Moctar) ignites the passions. Thomas Attar's production (also on guitars and synths) is enhanced by Matt Hyde's warm and massive mix.