Arab-Andalusian music is a classical genre with historic links to Persia, Iraq, and Moorish Spain. A highly lauded Arab-Andalusian contributor, the ninth century music theorist and musician Ziryab, is credited with having developed the classical suite known as the nouba and the theoretical "tree of modes." On Maroc: Musique Classiqe Andalouse de Fes, two Arab-Andalusian noubas from Fez, Morocco, are performed by Ustad Massano Tazi and his group of five accomplished vocalists and instrumentalists. With relaxed confidence and musical prowess, this sextet bangs out "Nouba Hijaz al Kabir" and "Nouba Istihilal." The former piece lasts for over 50 minutes and consists of numerous rhythmic cadences, instrumental interludes, and vocal variations. Physiologically speaking, it is traditionally played in order to call forth "the overall lymphatic tendency." The closing "Nouba Istihilal" is anchored in the six-beat qoddam rhythm and is played to honor both guests and the rising moon. The accompanying liner notes are helpful in that they provide a historical context for the recordings and introduce such complex concepts as the tree of modes and its relation to healing and "sound alchemy." Overall, the enchanting Maroc: Musique Classiqe Andalouse de Fes captures a solid performance by Ustad Massano Tazi and his band of cohorts. ~ John Vallier, All Music Guide
