Band: AL QAHWA
Album: WEYN ALLAH
Release Date: June 1, 2023
Genre: World Music
Toronto’s world music group AL QAHWA ENSEMBLE has unveiled their fourth album, WEYN ALLAH (Where is God?), and will celebrate the release with a live concert at Toronto’s Tranzac Club on Sunday, June 18, 2023, from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
The fourteen-song release opens with the title track and previous single, “Where Is God (Weyn Allah),” which is the longest song on the release and was written by Maryem Tollar. The track serves as a call to action, reminding listeners of their shared humanity and the responsibility to strive for a more just and equitable world.
“The Sky Is Falling” is the stand-out on the album for me. The repetitive nature of the chorus creates a hypnotic effect, drawing listeners into a contemplative state of mind. Musically, the song creates a serene and calming atmosphere, even showcasing bird sounds. The song emphasizes the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple pleasures in life. The imagery of walking barefoot on the grass, observing moving trees, and watching families in the park evokes a sense of connection with nature and the present moment. It encourages listeners to take a moment to breathe, relax, and find solace in the midst of chaos.
The album closes with “Forget Our Worries (Hayyas).” Although sung in Arabic, which I do not understand, I thoroughly enjoyed this track. As you listen, the beat and vocal melodies bring forth visions of happiness, dancing, and having fun, and at times, you hear laughter, and joyful expressions, which of course, are universal, and honestly brought a smile to my face.
Overall, WEYN ALLAH is a truly eclectic and dynamic musical tapestry. It serves as a testament to the beauty of cultural diversity and the power of music to transcend boundaries. Each track on the album is a vibrant mosaic, blending a diverse array of musical traditions, instruments, and vocal styles from different corners of the globe. What truly shines on this album is the collaboration of artists from varied backgrounds. The musicians bring their unique cultural perspectives, musical expertise, and personal experiences to the table, resulting in a harmonious and captivating interplay of sounds.