The ability of this ensemble, known collectively as The Band Beyond Borders, to craft splendid sonic dishes from minimal ingredients finds synchronicity in Amine & Hamza's composing. Case in point is opener "Spleen," which over its nearly 11-minute course showcases a melodic array of flavors. Whereas the co-leaders evoke desert and arid climate as a lens into childhood pasts, Conus's tenor saxophone lends a futuristic urbanity. Indian classical vocalist Kaushiki Chakraborty (indelibly present also in the otherwise fleeting atmospheres of "Café Tunis") adds depth of texture and widens the album's emotional reach even further.

"Love is an Eternal Journey"

Between this and the scintillating farewell of "Frozen Rivers," strengths of intuition abound. "Love is an Eternal Journey" is especially remarkable for its insight into the duo's interactive grammar. Oud and kanun work in tandem—as outer and inner voice, respectively—of an entity traveling the globe in search of universal impulses, while Bhatt's violin traces every moment of its shadow. Like many tunes that follow, such as the initially melancholy "Brahim's Dream" and the introspective "Letter to God," it builds to an enervating finish and hits the ground running the moment it finds its feet. The former's appearance by clarinetist Ismail Lumanovski makes it a highlight. Tenderer moments abound in "Lullaby for Leo" and "The Quest," both of which carry their weight in beauty.

"Lullaby For Leo"

The CD gatefold includes a glowing endorsement from Anouar Brahem. To be sure, fans of the master oudist and composer will find much to admire here. Like Brahem, they live by faith in illustration and are committed to the divine power of an earthly song. And believe me, these are songs that need to be sung. - Tyran Grillo

The CD is available from cdRoots