John Berberian

• color vinyl edition

Released originally in 1969, Middle Eastern Rock is a unique, compelling fusion record from Armenian-American oud player John Berberian. The Rock East Ensemble, Beberian’s backing band, consists of the artist’s standard group, which specializes in traditional Armenian music with a jazz edge, and American session musicians who bring more of a rock sound. The results, which blend elements of psychedelia, free jazz, surf music, and various klezmer, African, and Middle Eastern textures, are dazzling, and are sure to thrill anyone with a taste for rare "outside" albums." -

PERSONNEL:

• John Berberian (oud, leader)
• Chet Amsterdam (bass)
• Souren Baronian (clarinrt, tenor & baritone sax)
• Bill LaVorgna (drums)
• Joe Beck (electric guitar)
• Steve Pumilian (drumbeg)
• Bob Tashjian (percussion, vocals)
• Ed Brandon (rhythm guitar)

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. The Oud & The Fuzz
• A2. Tranquility
• A3. Chem-Oo-Chem

• SIDE B
• B1. Iron Maiden
• B2. Flying Hye
• B3. 3/8+5/8=8/8
• B4. The Magic Ground