Eight years after Blue Maqams, Anouar Brahem returns with a poignant project, titled after a line of verse by poet Mahmoud Darwish, which asks “Where should the birds fly, after the last sky?” Graceful chamber pieces for oud, cello, piano and bass subtly address the metaphysical question and its broad resonances in a troubled time. While drawing upon the traditional modes of Arab music, Brahem has consistently sought to engage with the wider world, too, and found inspiration in many sources from different cultures.

Bassist Dave Holland and pianist Django Bates are again part of the Tunisian oud master’s international quartet, joined now by cellist Anja Lechner. Brahem’s rapport with Holland – first established on the Thimar album of 1998 – is meanwhile legendary. “Dave’s playing gives me wings,” Anouar has said, an observation that materializes repeatedly across the record. Django Bates’ piano, an important supportive force throughout, contributes swirling solos. The album marks the first time that Anouar has included a cellist in his group music. Anja Lechner, a leading voice in the recording, has long been conversant with Brahem’s compositions and included them in her own recitals. The cello is given the first and last statements here.

PERSONNEL:
Anouar Brahem - (Oud)
Anja Lechner - (violoncello)
Django Bates - (piano)
Dave Holland - (double bass)

May 2024, Auditorio Stelio Molo RSI, Lugano

TRACKS:
01. Remembering Hind
02. After the Last Sky
03. Endless Wandering
04. The Eternal Olive Tree
05. Awake
06. In the Shade of Your Eyes
07. Dancing Under the Meteorites
08. The Sweet Oranges of Jaffa
09. Never Forget
10. Edward Said's Reverie
11. Vague