This new release by the normally guitar-playing Amos Hoffman finds him sticking strictly to his oud (a Middle Eastern lute), something that turns out to be an inspiring move!

The instrumental pieces here draw from the Arabic tradition in their scales and rhythms, ranging from intimate, restrained oud pieces, to exciting duets, to full orchestration.

Hoffman is supported by a fine cast of musicians on percussion, double bass, violin and ney (an Arabic flute). Their contribution to the colorful nature of this release is magnificent, as they, like Hoffman himself, blend the Arabic flavors with wholehearted jazzy improvisations and beautiful unison movements.

And so the compositions evolve and breathe, resembling those of Avishai Cohen, in which Hoffman made elegant contributions (on Cohen’s first three solo releases: Adama, Devotion and Colors). Cohen also returns the favor and guests on one of the tracks, contributing impressive, compatible bass work

The solo pieces are a bit bumpy, but the majesty of the rest is undeniable. The feature of the marimba on some of the tracks is especially noteworthy, enhancing the album’s ethnical fusion palette. (8.25/10)