Wusul [Vinyl]

Acclaimed Tel Aviv bassist, band leader, composer and producer Shay Hazan radiates with musical diversity on Wusul, his second solo album on Batov Records. This groundbreaking musical odyssey artfully melds the enchanting sounds of Gnawa music, spiritual jazz, hip hop grooves, and electronic production, with a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern and African influences. The album's enigmatic title, "Wusul" (Arabic for "arrival"), celebrates the expected birth of Hazan's first born child, expected to arrive around the same time as this album. Fitting, given that the latter is the result of a transformative phase in Hazan's career, with many of the album's songs evolving and taking shape during live performances. Most notably, a majority of the musicians featured on Wusul are integral members of Hazan's live band, bringing a synergy and connection to the music that is palpable. Shay Hazan's creative process reveals a cross-cultural narrative influenced by his extensive travels, from Central America to Japan, where he encountered the rich tradition of Gnawa musicians in Tel Aviv. Wusul is an introspective journey through the intricate tapestry of musical influences that have shaped Shay Hazan's unique sound. While Western and Mizrahi pop have left their marks on the record, they serve as threads in a larger, more intricate musical fabric. Hazan's profound exploration transcends traditional boundaries, weaving together a rich sonic tapestry that defies easy categorization.

Tracks
01. Dew
02. Oladipo
03. A Bite Of Sand
04. A Walk In Dir El-Assad
05. Yarabi
06. Yooltz
07. Vibe Jadid
08. Street Souls
09. Riff Raff