Album Review: Where We Are Gathered from Opium Moon

Album:  Where We Are Gathered
Artist:  Opium Moon
Label:  Downtown Artists
Website:  https://www.opiummoon.com

Traditional Middle Eastern soundscapes fused with contemporary ambient textures, Opium Moon take audiences along a serene sojourn on their latest release Where We Are Gathered from Downtown Artists.  Integrating the hypnotic beating of MB Gordy's percussion with the pulsating tremors of Itai Disraeli bass, their rhythmic swells are layered by the pensive ruminations of Hamid Saeidi's santoor and the eloquent phrasing of Lili Haydn's wistful violin strings.  The recording flows in a fluid stream of soothing soundscapes that put listeners at ease aurally, cerebrally, and internally.

Track after track is a winding trail of silky silhouettes, breezy caresses, and trance-like quivers.  The soothing sonic sensations massage the senses and have a tranquilizing effect on the mind.  The vocalizations on "Scorpion Moon" and "Of Kiss and Wing" resonate a balmy chanting that speaks the language of the human race.  The music brings the listener to a higher level of conscientiousness of spirituality where peace and unbridled bliss exists.  Vocalist Hengameh's zen-imbued sonorous on "Woman Life Freedom" elevate the track to an exalting anthem, and Benjy Wertheimer's robust timbres on "Metta Prayer" exude a deep reverence.

The enchanting tunes have celebratory undertones paired with statuesque chord patterns and serene textures.  The music is thoughtful and upbeat, dousing the human spirit with warmth and tranquility.  The deluge of positive energy is intoxicating and transformative, speaking the language of the human race.

Musicians:
MB Gordy - percussion
Itai Disraeli - bass
Hamid Saeidi - santoor
Lili Haydn - violin
Wouter Kellerman - flutist
Benjy Wertheimer - vocals
Hengameh - vocals