‘Ilahana’ Out Now

Posted on August 1st, 2020

Sami Yusuf’s new arrangement of ‘Ilahana’ is performed here live at the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music (2019). The opening vocal solo sets a mood of intense longing and divine separation. The percussive, energetic melody and sparse instrumentation of the piece underscore its ecstatic vocals, leading the listener to a trance-like state. A sophisticated work, composed in Maqam Sīkah with allusions Rahat al-Arwah and Shad ‘Araban, this stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of traditional music with its many nuances. The lyrics are by the much-loved poet Abu Nuwas (8th/9th c.). The renowned Moroccan singer Ismail Boujiya joins in this powerful piece, which will be included in Sami Yusuf’s forthcoming album, ‘Ecstasy’.

Listen/Watch Now: https://sy.lnk.to/Ilahana-FesFestival




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